Malaria situation in socotra island, republic of yemen

Abstract AR

Objectives To determine endemicity and seasonal variation of malaria in Socotra Island and to study the availability and accessibility of antimalarial drugs on the Island.

Methods: A longitudinal descriptive study was conducted in which multistage sampling was used.

Two surveys (during cold and hot seasons) were conducted, and monthly cases were detected and recorded.

Clinical and microscopical examinations were included, and both structured questionnaire and personal interview were used to collect data.

Results: It was determined that malaria in Socotra is generally mesoendemic to hyperendemic, with significant seasonal variation.

Infant parasite rate (which represents current transmission) is as high as 25.61% and 22.81% during cold and hot seasons respectively.

Spleen and parasite rates have different values according to elevation above sea level.

Antimalarial drugs are available, but there are some difficulties with accessibility.

Conclusion: The prevention and treatment of malaria remain significant problems in this area.