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Brown AB, Miller C, Hamer DH, Kozarsky P, Libman M, Huits R, Rizwan A, Emetulu H, Waggoner J, Chen LH, Leung DT, Bourque D, Connor BA, Licitra C, Angelo KM. Travel-Related Diagnoses Among U.S. Nonmigrant Travelers or Migrants Presenting to U.S. GeoSentinel Sites - GeoSentinel Network, 2012-2021. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT. SURVEILLANCE SUMMARIES (WASHINGTON, D.C. : 2002) 2023; 72:1-22. [PMID: 37368820 PMCID: PMC10332343 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.ss7207a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Problem/Condition During 2012-2021, the volume of international travel reached record highs and lows. This period also was marked by the emergence or large outbreaks of multiple infectious diseases (e.g., Zika virus, yellow fever, and COVID-19). Over time, the growing ease and increased frequency of travel has resulted in the unprecedented global spread of infectious diseases. Detecting infectious diseases and other diagnoses among travelers can serve as sentinel surveillance for new or emerging pathogens and provide information to improve case identification, clinical management, and public health prevention and response. Reporting Period 2012-2021. Description of System Established in 1995, the GeoSentinel Network (GeoSentinel), a collaboration between CDC and the International Society of Travel Medicine, is a global, clinical-care-based surveillance and research network of travel and tropical medicine sites that monitors infectious diseases and other adverse health events that affect international travelers. GeoSentinel comprises 71 sites in 29 countries where clinicians diagnose illnesses and collect demographic, clinical, and travel-related information about diseases and illnesses acquired during travel using a standardized report form. Data are collected electronically via a secure CDC database, and daily reports are generated for assistance in detecting sentinel events (i.e., unusual patterns or clusters of disease). GeoSentinel sites collaborate to report disease or population-specific findings through retrospective database analyses and the collection of supplemental data to fill specific knowledge gaps. GeoSentinel also serves as a communications network by using internal notifications, ProMed alerts, and peer-reviewed publications to alert clinicians and public health professionals about global outbreaks and events that might affect travelers. This report summarizes data from 20 U.S. GeoSentinel sites and reports on the detection of three worldwide events that demonstrate GeoSentinel's notification capability. Results During 2012-2021, data were collected by all GeoSentinel sites on approximately 200,000 patients who had approximately 244,000 confirmed or probable travel-related diagnoses. Twenty GeoSentinel sites from the United States contributed records during the 10-year surveillance period, submitting data on 18,336 patients, of which 17,389 lived in the United States and were evaluated by a clinician at a U.S. site after travel. Of those patients, 7,530 (43.3%) were recent migrants to the United States, and 9,859 (56.7%) were returning nonmigrant travelers.Among the recent migrants to the United States, the median age was 28.5 years (range = <19 years to 93 years); 47.3% were female, and 6.0% were U.S. citizens. A majority (89.8%) were seen as outpatients, and among 4,672 migrants with information available, 4,148 (88.8%) did not receive pretravel health information. Of 13,986 diagnoses among migrants, the most frequent were vitamin D deficiency (20.2%), Blastocystis (10.9%), and latent tuberculosis (10.3%). Malaria was diagnosed in 54 (<1%) migrants. Of the 26 migrants diagnosed with malaria for whom pretravel information was known, 88.5% did not receive pretravel health information. Before November 16, 2018, patients' reasons for travel, exposure country, and exposure region were not linked to an individual diagnosis. Thus, results of these data from January 1, 2012, to November 15, 2018 (early period), and from November 16, 2018, to December 31, 2021 (later period), are reported separately. During the early and later periods, the most frequent regions of exposure were Sub-Saharan Africa (22.7% and 26.2%, respectively), the Caribbean (21.3% and 8.4%, respectively), Central America (13.4% and 27.6%, respectively), and South East Asia (13.1% and 16.9%, respectively). Migrants with diagnosed malaria were most frequently exposed in Sub-Saharan Africa (89.3% and 100%, respectively).Among nonmigrant travelers returning to the United States, the median age was 37 years (range = <19 years to 96 years); 55.7% were female, 75.3% were born in the United States, and 89.4% were U.S. citizens. A majority (90.6%) were seen as outpatients, and of 8,967 nonmigrant travelers with available information, 5,878 (65.6%) did not receive pretravel health information. Of 11,987 diagnoses, the most frequent were related to the gastrointestinal system (5,173; 43.2%). The most frequent diagnoses among nonmigrant travelers were acute diarrhea (16.9%), viral syndrome (4.9%), and irritable bowel syndrome (4.1%).Malaria was diagnosed in 421 (3.5%) nonmigrant travelers. During the early (January 1, 2012, to November 15, 2018) and later (November 16, 2018, to December 31, 2021) periods, the most frequent reasons for travel among nonmigrant travelers were tourism (44.8% and 53.6%, respectively), travelers visiting friends and relatives (VFRs) (22.0% and 21.4%, respectively), business (13.4% and 12.3%, respectively), and missionary or humanitarian aid (13.1% and 6.2%, respectively). The most frequent regions of exposure for any diagnosis among nonmigrant travelers during the early and later period were Central America (19.2% and 17.3%, respectively), Sub-Saharan Africa (17.7% and 25.5%, respectively), the Caribbean (13.0% and 10.9%, respectively), and South East Asia (10.4% and 11.2%, respectively).Nonmigrant travelers who had malaria diagnosed were most frequently exposed in Sub-Saharan Africa (88.6% and 95.9% during the early and later period, respectively) and VFRs (70.3% and 57.9%, respectively). Among VFRs with malaria, a majority did not receive pretravel health information (70.2% and 83.3%, respectively) or take malaria chemoprophylaxis (88.3% and 100%, respectively). Interpretation Among ill U.S. travelers evaluated at U.S. GeoSentinel sites after travel, the majority were nonmigrant travelers who most frequently received a gastrointestinal disease diagnosis, implying that persons from the United States traveling internationally might be exposed to contaminated food and water. Migrants most frequently received diagnoses of conditions such as vitamin D deficiency and latent tuberculosis, which might result from adverse circumstances before and during migration (e.g., malnutrition and food insecurity, limited access to adequate sanitation and hygiene, and crowded housing,). Malaria was diagnosed in both migrants and nonmigrant travelers, and only a limited number reported taking malaria chemoprophylaxis, which might be attributed to both barriers to acquiring pretravel health care (especially for VFRs) and lack of prevention practices (e.g., insect repellant use) during travel. The number of ill travelers evaluated by U.S. GeoSentinel sites after travel decreased in 2020 and 2021 compared with previous years because of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated travel restrictions. GeoSentinel detected limited cases of COVID-19 and did not detect any sentinel cases early in the pandemic because of the lack of global diagnostic testing capacity. Public Health Action The findings in this report describe the scope of health-related conditions that migrants and returning nonmigrant travelers to the United States acquired, illustrating risk for acquiring illnesses during travel. In addition, certain travelers do not seek pretravel health care, even when traveling to areas in which high-risk, preventable diseases are endemic. Health care professionals can aid international travelers by providing evaluations and destination-specific advice.Health care professionals should both foster trust and enhance pretravel prevention messaging for VFRs, a group known to have a higher incidence of serious diseases after travel (e.g., malaria and enteric fever). Health care professionals should continue to advocate for medical care in underserved populations (e.g., VFRs and migrants) to prevent disease progression, reactivation, and potential spread to and within vulnerable populations. Because both travel and infectious diseases evolve, public health professionals should explore ways to enhance the detection of emerging diseases that might not be captured by current surveillance systems that are not site based.
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Park J, Joo H, Maskery BA, Alpern JD, Weinberg M, Stauffer WM. Costs of malaria treatment in the United States. J Travel Med 2023; 30:taad013. [PMID: 36718673 PMCID: PMC10983762 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taad013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We estimated inpatient and outpatient payments for malaria treatment in the USA. The mean cost per hospitalized patient was significantly higher than for non-hospitalized patients (e.g. $27 642 vs $1177 among patients with private insurance). Patients with severe malaria payed two to four times more than those hospitalized with uncomplicated malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joohyun Park
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Heesoo Joo
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Brian A Maskery
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jonathan D Alpern
- HealthPartners Institute, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Michelle Weinberg
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - William M Stauffer
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Failoc-Rojas VE, Becerra-Silva F, Chero-Salvador J, Iglesias-Osores S, Valladares-Garrido MJ, Zeña-Ñañez S. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices about malaria in travelers to risk areas in Peru. Travel Med Infect Dis 2022; 52:102522. [PMID: 36513317 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2022.102522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Travelers from international airports who travel to endemic countries know the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) about malaria; however, it is still unknown to interprovincial travelers who go to the endemic regions of Peru. The objective is to determine the level of KAP about malaria among Peruvian travelers to risk areas. METHODS AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS This are an analytical cross-sectional study of 277 passengers from a bus station in a low-risk area of malaria in Peru, whose destination was an intermediate/high-risk area during February-March 2018. Absolute and relative frequencies of personal variables associated with the trip and KAP were estimated. RESULTS Less than 50% know the main symptoms of malaria and at what time of day there is a greater risk of becoming infected. Five out of ten people knew which practices were preventive against contagion, and four out of ten answered that the treatment can be given in a health establishment, pharmacy, or by some healer. CONCLUSIONS Travelers to malaria endemic areas have a low level of knowledge and practice (39.7%) as well as an inadequate preventive attitude (35.4%) against malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Frank Becerra-Silva
- Facultad Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional Pedro Ruiz Gallo, Lambayeque, Peru
| | - Juan Chero-Salvador
- Facultad Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional Pedro Ruiz Gallo, Lambayeque, Peru
| | | | - Mario J Valladares-Garrido
- Universidad Continental, Lima, Peru; Oficina de Epidemiología, Hospital Regional Lambayeque, Chiclayo, Peru
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Mace KE, Lucchi NW, Tan KR. Malaria Surveillance — United States, 2018. MMWR. SURVEILLANCE SUMMARIES 2022; 71:1-35. [PMID: 36048717 PMCID: PMC9470224 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.ss7108a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Problem/Condition Malaria in humans is caused by intraerythrocytic protozoa of the genus Plasmodium. These parasites are transmitted by the bite of an infective female Anopheles species mosquito. Most malaria infections in the United States and its territories occur among persons who have traveled to regions with ongoing malaria transmission. However, among persons who have not traveled out of the country, malaria is occasionally acquired through exposure to infected blood or tissues, congenital transmission, nosocomial exposure, or local mosquitoborne transmission. Malaria surveillance in the United States and its territories provides information on its occurrence (e.g., temporal, geographic, and demographic), guides prevention and treatment recommendations for travelers and patients, and facilitates rapid transmission control measures if locally acquired cases are identified. Period Covered This report summarizes confirmed malaria cases in persons with onset of illness in 2018 and trends in previous years. Description of System Malaria cases diagnosed by blood smear microscopy, polymerase chain reaction, or rapid diagnostic tests are reported to local and state health departments through electronic laboratory reports or by health care providers or laboratory staff members directly reporting to CDC or health departments. Case investigations are conducted by local and state health departments, and reports are transmitted to CDC through the National Malaria Surveillance System (NMSS), the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS), or direct CDC clinical consultations. CDC reference laboratories provide diagnostic assistance and conduct antimalarial drug resistance marker testing on blood specimens submitted by health care providers or local or state health departments. This report summarizes data from the integration of all cases from NMSS and NNDSS, CDC clinical consultations, and CDC reference laboratory reports. Results CDC received reports of 1,823 confirmed malaria cases with onset of symptoms in 2018, including one cryptic case and one case acquired through a bone marrow transplant. The number of cases reported in 2018 is 15.6% fewer than in 2017. The number of cases diagnosed in the United States and its territories has been increasing since the mid-1970s; the number of cases reported in 2017 was the highest since 1972. Of the cases in 2018, a total of 1,519 (85.0%) were imported cases that originated from Africa; 1,061 (69.9%) of the cases from Africa were from West Africa, a similar proportion to what was observed in 2017. Among all cases, P. falciparum accounted for most infections (1,273 [69.8%]), followed by P. vivax (173 [9.5%]), P. ovale (95 [5.2%]), and P. malariae (48 [2.6%]). For the first time since 2008, an imported case of P. knowlesi was identified in the United States and its territories. Infections by two or more species accounted for 17 cases (<1.0%). The infecting species was not reported or was undetermined in 216 cases (11.9%). Most patients (92.6%) had symptom onset <90 days after returning to the United States or its territories from a country with malaria transmission. Of the U.S. civilian patients who reported reason for travel, 77.0% were visiting friends and relatives. Chemoprophylaxis with antimalarial medications are recommended for U.S. residents to prevent malaria while traveling in countries where it is endemic. Fewer U.S. residents with imported malaria reported taking any malaria chemoprophylaxis in 2018 (24.5%) than in 2017 (28.4%), and adherence was poor among those who took chemoprophylaxis. Among the 864 U.S. residents with malaria for whom information on chemoprophylaxis use and travel region were known, 95.0% did not adhere to or did not take a CDC-recommended chemoprophylaxis regimen. Among 683 women with malaria, 19 reported being pregnant. Of these, 11 pregnant women were U.S. residents, and one of whom reported taking chemoprophylaxis to prevent malaria but her adherence to chemoprophylaxis was not reported. Thirty-eight (2.1%) malaria cases occurred among U.S. military personnel in 2018, more than in 2017 (26 [1.2%]). Among all reported malaria cases in 2018, a total of 251 (13.8%) were classified as severe malaria illness, and seven persons died from malaria. In 2018, CDC analyzed 106 P. falciparum-positive and four P. falciparum mixed species specimens for antimalarial resistance markers (although certain loci were untestable in some specimens); identification of genetic polymorphisms associated with resistance to pyrimethamine were found in 99 (98.0%), to sulfadoxine in 49 (49.6%), to chloroquine in 50 (45.5%), and to mefloquine in two (2.0%); no specimens tested contained a marker for atovaquone or artemisinin resistance. Interpretation The importation of malaria reflects the overall trends in global travel to and from areas where malaria is endemic, and 15.6% fewer cases were imported in 2018 compared with 2017. Of imported cases, 59.3% were among persons who had traveled from West Africa. Among U.S. civilians, visiting friends and relatives was the most common reason for travel (77.1%). Public Health Actions The best way for U.S. residents to prevent malaria is to take chemoprophylaxis medication before, during, and after travel to a country where malaria is endemic. Adherence to recommended malaria prevention strategies among U.S. travelers would reduce the number of imported cases. Reported reasons for nonadherence include prematurely stopping after leaving the area where malaria was endemic, forgetting to take the medication, and experiencing a side effect. Health care providers can make travelers aware of the risks posed by malaria and incorporate education to motivate them to be adherent to chemoprophylaxis. Malaria infections can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated promptly with antimalarial medications appropriate for the patient’s age, pregnancy status, medical history, the likely country of malaria acquisition, and previous use of antimalarial chemoprophylaxis. Antimalarial use for chemoprophylaxis and treatment should be determined by the CDC guidelines, which are frequently updated. In April 2019, intravenous (IV) artesunate became the first-line medication for treatment of severe malaria in the United States and its territories. Artesunate was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2020 and is commercially available (Artesunate for Injection) from major U.S. drug distributors (https://amivas.com). Stocking IV artesunate locally allows for immediate treatment of severe malaria once diagnosed and provides patients with the best chance of a complete recovery and no sequelae. With commercial IV artesunate now available, CDC will discontinue distribution of non–FDA-approved IV artesunate under an investigational new drug protocol on September 30, 2022. Detailed recommendations for preventing malaria are online at https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/travelers/drugs.html. Malaria diagnosis and treatment recommendations are also available online at https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/diagnosis_treatment. Health care providers who have sought urgent infectious disease consultation and require additional assistance on diagnosis and treatment of malaria can call the Malaria Hotline 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday–Friday, at 770-488-7788 or 855-856-4713 or after hours for urgent inquiries at 770-488-7100. Persons submitting malaria case reports (care providers, laboratories, and state and local public health officials) should provide complete information because incomplete reporting compromises case investigations and public health efforts to prevent future infections and examine trends in malaria cases. Molecular surveillance of antimalarial drug resistance markers enables CDC to track, guide treatment, and manage drug resistance in malaria parasites both domestically and globally. A greater proportion of specimens from domestic malaria cases are needed to improve the completeness of antimalarial drug resistance analysis; therefore, CDC requests that blood specimens be submitted for any case of malaria diagnosed in the United States and its territories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly E. Mace
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, CDC
| | - Naomi W. Lucchi
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, CDC
| | - Kathrine R. Tan
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, CDC
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Frosch AE, Thielen BK, Alpern JD, Walz EJ, Volkman HR, Smith M, Wanduragala D, Holder W, Boumi AE, Stauffer WM. Antimalarial chemoprophylaxis and treatment in the USA: limited access and extreme price variability. J Travel Med 2022; 29:6338087. [PMID: 34343310 PMCID: PMC9282095 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taab117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne E Frosch
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.,Department of Medicine, Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute and Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, MN 55415, USA
| | - Beth K Thielen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | | | - Emily J Walz
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Hannah R Volkman
- School of Public Health, Division of Environmental Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Mackenzie Smith
- Infectious Disease Equity and Engagement Unit, Minnesota Department of Health, Saint Paul, MN 55164, USA
| | - Danushka Wanduragala
- Infectious Disease Equity and Engagement Unit, Minnesota Department of Health, Saint Paul, MN 55164, USA
| | - Wilhelmina Holder
- New American Alliance for Development, Saint Paul, MN 55104, USA.,Malaria Community Advisory Board, Minneapolis/Saint Paul, MN 55164, USA
| | - Ama Eli Boumi
- Malaria Community Advisory Board, Minneapolis/Saint Paul, MN 55164, USA
| | - William M Stauffer
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Gaps in knowledge and practices of malaria prevention in Francophone African immigrants in Metropolitan Edmonton. Malar J 2022; 21:197. [PMID: 35729617 PMCID: PMC9215031 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04210-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Important knowledge gaps exist in the understanding of the management of the risks of imported malaria in Canada among Francophone immigrants from sub-Saharan Africa (FISSA). The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the malaria related-knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of FISSA in Edmonton, where these immigrants are in an official minority language situation and the impact of language barriers on these factors. Methods A structured survey was used to examine the KAP of 382 FISSA in the Edmonton area from 2018 to 2019. Fisher’s Exact Test was applied to determine if there were associations between knowledge of malaria and different risk factors. Results Almost all FISSA (97%) had an accurate knowledge of fever as the key symptom of malaria. Interestingly, 60% of participants identified bed nets as a preventive method and only 19% of participants had accurate knowledge of malaria transmission. An accurate knowledge of symptoms was significantly associated with a high perceived risk of contracting malaria [odds ratio (OR) 4.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07–20.62]. Furthermore, even though 70% of FISSA had a high perceived risk of contracting malaria in endemic regions, only 52% of travellers had a pre-travel medical encounter. Importantly, language was not the predominant reason for not seeking pre-travel medical advice, although 84% of respondents chose French as their official language of preference when seeking medical advice. Having a French-speaking physician was correlated with satisfactory prevention knowledge (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.16–3.35). With respect to health-seeking behaviour, 88% of respondents with a child < 5 years of age would seek medical care for fever in the child after travel to sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Conclusion This study highlights that factors other than knowledge, risk assessment, and language might determine the lack of compliance with pre-travel medical encounters. It underscores the need for effective strategies to improve this adherence in minority settings. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12936-022-04210-w.
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Schubert L, Thurnher PMM, Machold PK, Tobudic PS, Winkler PS. Pandemic-related delay of falciparum malaria diagnosis in a traveller leading to cerebral malaria. J Travel Med 2021; 28:6381387. [PMID: 34609486 PMCID: PMC8500152 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taab159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We report the case of a 29-year-old male in whom COVID-19 concerns led to a delayed diagnosis of falciparum malaria. The patient developed symptoms of cerebral malaria with cytotoxic lesions of the corpus callosum in magnetic resonance imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenz Schubert
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Professor Majda M Thurnher
- Department for Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Professor Klaus Machold
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Professor Selma Tobudic
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Professor Stefan Winkler
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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Jongdeepaisal M, Ean M, Heng C, Buntau T, Tripura R, Callery JJ, Peto TJ, Conradis-Jansen F, von Seidlein L, Khonputsa P, Pongsoipetch K, Soviet U, Sovannaroth S, Pell C, Maude RJ. Acceptability and feasibility of malaria prophylaxis for forest goers: findings from a qualitative study in Cambodia. Malar J 2021; 20:446. [PMID: 34823527 PMCID: PMC8613728 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03983-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Greater Mekong Subregion, adults are at highest risk for malaria, particularly those who visit forests. The absence of effective vector control strategies and limited periods of exposure during forest visits suggest that chemoprophylaxis could be an appropriate strategy to protect forest goers against malaria. METHODS Alongside a clinical trial of anti-malarial chemoprophylaxis in northern Cambodia, qualitative research was conducted, including in-depth interviews and observation, to explore the acceptability of malaria prophylaxis for forest goers, the implementation opportunities, and challenges of this strategy. RESULTS Prophylaxis with artemether-lumefantrine for forest goers was found to be acceptable under trial conditions. Three factors played a major role: the community's awareness and perception of the effectiveness of prophylaxis, their trust in the provider, and malaria as a local health concern. The findings highlight how uptake and adherence to prophylaxis are influenced by the perceived balance between benefits and burden of anti-malarials which are modulated by the seasonality of forest visits and its influence on malaria risk. CONCLUSIONS The implementation of anti-malarial prophylaxis needs to consider how the preventive medication can be incorporated into existing vector-control measures, malaria testing and treatment services. The next step in the roll out of anti-malarial prophylaxis for forest visitors will require support from local health workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monnaphat Jongdeepaisal
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mom Ean
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chhoeun Heng
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thoek Buntau
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Rupam Tripura
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - James J. Callery
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas J. Peto
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Franca Conradis-Jansen
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Panarasri Khonputsa
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kulchada Pongsoipetch
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ung Soviet
- Provincial Health Department, Stung Treng, Stung Treng Cambodia
| | - Siv Sovannaroth
- grid.452707.3National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Christopher Pell
- grid.450091.90000 0004 4655 0462Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development (AIGHD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Global Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centers - Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.7177.60000000084992262Centre for Social Science and Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richard J. Maude
- grid.501272.30000 0004 5936 4917Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK ,grid.38142.3c000000041936754XHarvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, USA ,grid.10837.3d0000000096069301The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
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9
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Comelli A, Guarner ME, Tomasoni LR, Fanetti Zamboni A, Moreno Pavón B, Zanotti P, Caligaris S, Matteelli A, Soriano-Arandes A, Castelli F. Severe imported Plasmodium falciparum malaria in children: characteristics and useful factors in the risk stratification. Travel Med Infect Dis 2021; 44:102196. [PMID: 34748988 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2021.102196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe imported pediatric malaria is of concern in non-endemic settings. We aimed to determine the features of pediatric severe cases in order to design a model able to stratify patients at presentation. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study including all imported P. falciparum malaria infection in patients ≤14 years of age, treated from January 2008 to February 2019 in two tertiary hospitals: Brescia, Italy and Barcelona, Spain. Severe malaria was defined according to World Health Organization criteria. Mortality rate, pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) stay and blood transfusion were analysed as adverse outcomes. RESULTS Out of 139 children included, 30.9% were severe malaria. Twenty-seven (19.4%) were admitted to PICU, and transfusion was required in 14 cases (10.1%). Predictors for severe malaria were: young age, low hemoglobin, high white blood cells (WBC) and high C-reactive protein. Platelet <130,000/μl correlated with severe malaria (without statistical significance). A model that includes age, WBC and C-reactive protein shows a high specificity to classify patients without severe malaria (92.3%) with 70% PPV and 75% NPV. CONCLUSIONS A score based on patient's age, WBC and C-reactive protein easily available at emergency room can help to identify children with higher risk of adverse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Comelli
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy.
| | - María Espiau Guarner
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunodeficiencies Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall D'Hebron. PROSICS Barcelona. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lina Rachele Tomasoni
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Agnese Fanetti Zamboni
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Belén Moreno Pavón
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunodeficiencies Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall D'Hebron. PROSICS Barcelona. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paola Zanotti
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Silvio Caligaris
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Matteelli
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antoni Soriano-Arandes
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunodeficiencies Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall D'Hebron. PROSICS Barcelona. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesco Castelli
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
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10
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Schneitler S, Gülker J, Alhussein F, Bub F, Halfmann A, Klein L, Roth S, Jung P, Becker SL. Experiences with pre-travel diagnostic PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2: challenges and opportunities. J Travel Med 2021; 28:6330025. [PMID: 34323275 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taab116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
This study explores challenges and opportunities arising from pre-travel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 diagnostics for the conduct of travel medicine clinics. We found that such testing might offer huge opportunities to reach individuals who would otherwise not present to travel medicine clinics, such as individuals visiting friends and relatives in malaria-endemic countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Schneitler
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 43, 66421 Homburg, Germany.,Institute of Pneumology at the University of Cologne, Bethanien Hospital, Clinic for Pneumology and Allergology, Centre of Sleep Medicine and Respiratory Care, Aufderhöher Straße 169, 42699 Solingen, Germany
| | - Jana Gülker
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 43, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Farah Alhussein
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 43, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Florian Bub
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 43, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Halfmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 43, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Klein
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 43, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Sophie Roth
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 43, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Jung
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 43, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Sören L Becker
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 43, 66421 Homburg, Germany.,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, P.O. Box, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland
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11
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Pousibet-Puerto J, Lozano-Serrano AB, Soriano-Pérez MJ, Vázquez-Villegas J, Giménez-López MJ, Cabeza-Barrera MI, Cuenca-Gómez JÁ, Palanca-Giménez M, Luzón-García MP, Castillo-Fernández N, Cabezas-Fernández MT, Salas-Coronas J. Migration-associated malaria from Africa in southern Spain. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:240. [PMID: 33962647 PMCID: PMC8103587 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04727-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The western area of the province of Almeria, sited in southern Spain, has one of the highest immigrant population rates in Spain, mainly dedicated to agricultural work. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of cases of imported malaria associated with migrants from countries belonging to sub-Saharan Africa. The objective of our study is to describe the epidemiological, clinical and analytical characteristics of malaria patients treated in a specialized tropical unit, paying special attention to the differences between VFR and non-VFR migrants and also to the peculiarities of microscopic malaria cases compared to submicroscopic ones. Methods Retrospective observational study of migrants over 14 years of age with imported malaria treated from October 2004 to May 2019. Characteristics of VFR and non-VFR migrants were compared. Malaria cases were divided into microscopic malaria (MM) and submicroscopic malaria (SMM). SMM was defined as the presence of a positive malaria PCR test together with a negative direct microscopic examination and a negative rapid diagnostic test (RDT). Microscopic malaria was defined as the presence of a positive RDT and/or a positive smear examination. Results Three hundred thirty-six cases of malaria were diagnosed, 329 in sub-Saharan immigrants. Of these, 78.1% were VFR migrants, in whom MM predominated (85.2% of cases). In non-VFR migrants, SMM represented 72.2% of the cases. Overall, 239 (72.6%) patients presented MM and 90 (27.4%) SMM. Fever was the most frequent clinical manifestation (64.4%), mainly in the MM group (MM: 81.1% vs SMM: 20.0%; p < 0.01). The most frequent species was P. falciparum. Patients with SMM presented fewer cytopenias and a greater number of coinfections due to soil-transmitted helminths, filarial and intestinal protozoa compared to patients with MM. Conclusions Imported malaria in our area is closely related to sub-Saharan migration. VFR migrants are the main risk group, highlighting the need for actions aimed at improving disease prevention measures. On the other hand, almost a third of the cases are due to SMM. This fact could justify its systematic screening, at least for those travelers at greater risk. Graphic Abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Joaquín Salas-Coronas
- Tropical Medicine Unit. Hospital de Poniente, El Ejido, Almería, Spain. .,CEMyRI (Center for the Study of Migration and Intercultural Relations) of the University of Almeria, Almería, Spain.
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12
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Mace KE, Lucchi NW, Tan KR. Malaria Surveillance - United States, 2017. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT. SURVEILLANCE SUMMARIES (WASHINGTON, D.C. : 2002) 2021; 70:1-35. [PMID: 33735166 PMCID: PMC8017932 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.ss7002a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
PROBLEM/CONDITION Malaria in humans is caused by intraerythrocytic protozoa of the genus Plasmodium. These parasites are transmitted by the bite of an infective female Anopheles species mosquito. The majority of malaria infections in the United States occur among persons who have traveled to regions with ongoing malaria transmission. However, malaria is occasionally acquired by persons who have not traveled out of the country through exposure to infected blood products, congenital transmission, nosocomial exposure, or local mosquitoborne transmission. Malaria surveillance in the United States is conducted to provide information on its occurrence (e.g., temporal, geographic, and demographic), guide prevention and treatment recommendations for travelers and patients, and facilitate rapid transmission control measures if locally acquired cases are identified. PERIOD COVERED This report summarizes confirmed malaria cases in persons with onset of illness in 2017 and trends in previous years. DESCRIPTION OF SYSTEM Malaria cases diagnosed by blood film microscopy, polymerase chain reaction, or rapid diagnostic tests are reported to local and state health departments through electronic laboratory reports or by health care providers or laboratory staff members. Case investigations are conducted by local and state health departments, and reports are transmitted to CDC through the National Malaria Surveillance System (NMSS), the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS), or direct CDC consultations. CDC reference laboratories provide diagnostic assistance and conduct antimalarial drug resistance marker testing on blood samples submitted by health care providers or local or state health departments. This report summarizes data from the integration of all cases from NMSS and NNDSS, CDC reference laboratory reports, and CDC clinical consultations. RESULTS CDC received reports of 2,161 confirmed malaria cases with onset of symptoms in 2017, including two congenital cases, three cryptic cases, and two cases acquired through blood transfusion. The number of malaria cases diagnosed in the United States has been increasing since the mid-1970s; in 2017, the number of cases reported was the highest in 45 years, surpassing the previous peak of 2,078 confirmed cases reported in 2016. Of the cases in 2017, a total of 1,819 (86.1%) were imported cases that originated from Africa; 1,216 (66.9%) of these came from West Africa. The overall proportion of imported cases originating from West Africa was greater in 2017 (57.6%) than in 2016 (51.6%). Among all cases, P. falciparum accounted for the majority of infections (1,523 [70.5%]), followed by P. vivax (216 [10.0%]), P. ovale (119 [5.5%]), and P. malariae (55 [2.6%]). Infections by two or more species accounted for 22 cases (1.0%). The infecting species was not reported or was undetermined in 226 cases (10.5%). CDC provided diagnostic assistance for 9.5% of confirmed cases and tested 8.0% of specimens with P. falciparum infections for antimalarial resistance markers. Most patients (94.8%) had symptom onset <90 days after returning to the United States from a country with malaria transmission. Of the U.S. civilian patients who reported reason for travel, 73.1% were visiting friends and relatives. The proportion of U.S. residents with malaria who reported taking any chemoprophylaxis in 2017 (28.4%) was similar to that in 2016 (26.4%), and adherence was poor among those who took chemoprophylaxis. Among the 996 U.S. residents with malaria for whom information on chemoprophylaxis use and travel region were known, 93.3% did not adhere to or did not take a CDC-recommended chemoprophylaxis regimen. Among 805 women with malaria, 27 reported being pregnant. Of these, 10 pregnant women were U.S. residents, and none reported taking chemoprophylaxis to prevent malaria. A total of 26 (1.2%) malaria cases occurred among U.S. military personnel in 2017, fewer than in 2016 (41 [2.0%]). Among all reported cases in 2017, a total of 312 (14.4%) were classified as severe malaria illnesses, and seven persons died. In 2017, CDC analyzed 117 P. falciparum-positive and six P. falciparum mixed-species samples for antimalarial resistance markers (although certain loci were untestable in some samples); identification of genetic polymorphisms associated with resistance to pyrimethamine were found in 108 (97.3%), to sulfadoxine in 77 (69.4%), to chloroquine in 38 (33.3%), to mefloquine in three (2.7%), and to atovaquone in three (2.7%); no specimens tested contained a marker for artemisinin resistance. The data completeness of key variables (species, country of acquisition, and resident status) was lower in 2017 (74.4%) than in 2016 (79.4%). INTERPRETATION The number of reported malaria cases in 2017 continued a decades-long increasing trend, and for the second year in a row the highest number of cases since 1971 have been reported. Despite progress in malaria control in recent years, the disease remains endemic in many areas globally. The importation of malaria reflects the overall increase in global travel to and from these areas. Fifty-six percent of all cases were among persons who had traveled from West Africa, and among U.S. civilians, visiting friends and relatives was the most common reason for travel (73.1%). Frequent international travel combined with the inadequate use of prevention measures by travelers resulted in the highest number of imported malaria cases detected in the United States in 4 decades. PUBLIC HEALTH ACTIONS The best way to prevent malaria is to take chemoprophylaxis medication during travel to a country where malaria is endemic. Adherence to recommended malaria prevention strategies among U.S. travelers would reduce the numbers of imported cases; reasons for nonadherence include prematurely stopping after leaving the area where malaria was endemic, forgetting to take the medication, and experiencing a side effect. Travelers might not understand the risk that malaria poses to them; thus, health care providers should incorporate risk education to motivate travelers to be adherent to chemoprophylaxis. Malaria infections can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated promptly with antimalarial medications appropriate for the patient's age, medical history, the likely country of malaria acquisition, and previous use of antimalarial chemoprophylaxis. Antimalarial use for chemoprophylaxis and treatment should be informed by the most recent guidelines, which are frequently updated. In 2018, two formulations of tafenoquine (i.e., Arakoda and Krintafel) were approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the United States. Arakoda was approved for use by adults for chemoprophylaxis; the regimen requires a predeparture loading dose, taking the medication weekly during travel, and a short course posttravel. The Arakoda chemoprophylaxis regimen is shorter than alternative regimens, which could possibly improve adherence. This medication also might prevent relapses. Krintafel was approved for radical cure of P. vivax infections in those aged >16 years and should be co-administered with chloroquine (https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/new_info/2020/tafenoquine_2020.html). In April 2019, intravenous artesunate became the first-line medication for treatment of severe malaria in the United States. Artesunate was recently FDA approved but is not yet commercially available. The drug can be obtained from CDC under an investigational new drug protocol. Detailed recommendations for preventing malaria are available to the general public at the CDC website (https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/travelers/drugs.html). Health care providers should consult the CDC Guidelines for Treatment of Malaria in the United States and contact the CDC's Malaria Hotline for case management advice when needed. Malaria treatment recommendations are available online (https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/diagnosis_treatment) and from the Malaria Hotline (770-488-7788 or toll-free 855-856-4713). Persons submitting malaria case reports (care providers, laboratories, and state and local public health officials) should provide complete information because incomplete reporting compromises case investigations and efforts to prevent infections and examine trends in malaria cases. Molecular surveillance of antimalarial drug resistance markers (https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/features/ars.html) enables CDC to track, guide treatment, and manage drug resistance in malaria parasites both domestically and internationally. More samples are needed to improve the completeness of antimalarial drug resistance analysis; therefore, CDC requests that blood specimens be submitted for any case of malaria diagnosed in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly E. Mace
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, CDC
| | - Naomi W. Lucchi
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, CDC
| | - Kathrine R. Tan
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, CDC
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13
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Looman L, Pell C. End-user perspectives on preventive antimalarials: A review of qualitative research. Glob Public Health 2021; 17:753-767. [PMID: 33617406 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.1888388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Antimalarials have been administered widely to prevent clinical malaria and researchers have explored how end-users' perspectives influence uptake and adherence. Drawing on a systematic search, this review aims to synthesise qualitative research on end-user perceptions of antimalarials for disease prevention. Searches were undertaken in PubMed and ISI Web of Knowledge. After applying exclusion criteria, identified sources underwent thematic analysis. Identified sources were published between 2000 and 2020 and drew on studies undertaken across Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania and America. The sources revealed end-user concerns about the potential benefits and harms of preventive treatment that are entwined with broader understandings of the disease, the intervention, its implementation, accompanying information, and how it is embedded in wider healthcare and social relationships. The implications for antimalarials as preventive therapy encompass the need to build trust, including interpersonal trust, engage diverse stakeholders and to address broader health and wellbeing concerns during implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisanne Looman
- Department of Global Health Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christopher Pell
- Department of Global Health Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development (AIGHD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Centre for Social Science and Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Norman FF, Chamorro-Tojeiro S, Crespillo-Andújar C, Comeche B, Caballero JDD, López-Vélez R. Travel-related fever in the time of COVID-19 travel restrictions. J Travel Med 2020; 27:5868303. [PMID: 32634228 PMCID: PMC7454772 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taaa104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Travel-related infections with prolonged incubation periods should be considered in febrile patients despite the current epidemiological situation, especially if alternative more frequent diagnoses, such as COVID-19, are not confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca F Norman
- National Referral Unit for Tropical Diseases, Infectious Diseases Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Ctra. Colmenar Km 9,100, 28034, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Chamorro-Tojeiro
- National Referral Unit for Tropical Diseases, Infectious Diseases Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Ctra. Colmenar Km 9,100, 28034, Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Crespillo-Andújar
- National Referral Unit for Tropical Diseases, Infectious Diseases Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Ctra. Colmenar Km 9,100, 28034, Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén Comeche
- National Referral Unit for Tropical Diseases, Infectious Diseases Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Ctra. Colmenar Km 9,100, 28034, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan de Dios Caballero
- Microbiology Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Ctra. Colmenar Km 9,100, 28034, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rogelio López-Vélez
- National Referral Unit for Tropical Diseases, Infectious Diseases Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Ctra. Colmenar Km 9,100, 28034, Madrid, Spain
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15
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Volkman HR, Walz EJ, Wanduragala D, Schiffman E, Frosch A, Alpern JD, Walker PF, Angelo KM, Coyle C, Mohamud MA, Mwangi E, Haizel-Cobbina J, Nchanji C, Johnson RS, Ladze B, Dunlop SJ, Stauffer WM. Barriers to malaria prevention among immigrant travelers in the United States who visit friends and relatives in sub-Saharan Africa: A cross-sectional, multi-setting survey of knowledge, attitudes, and practices. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229565. [PMID: 32163426 PMCID: PMC7067457 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite achievements in the reduction of malaria globally, imported malaria cases to the United States by returning international travelers continue to increase. Immigrants to the United States from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) who then travel back to their homelands to visit friends and relatives (VFRs) experience a disproportionate burden of malaria illness. Various studies have explored barriers to malaria prevention among VFRs and non-VFRs-travelers to the same destinations with other purpose for travel-but few employed robust epidemiologic study designs or performed comparative analyses of these two groups. To better quantify the key barriers that VFRs face to implement effective malaria prevention measures, we conducted a comprehensive community-based, cross-sectional, survey to identify differences in malaria prevention knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among VFRs and others traveling to Africa and describe the differences between VFRs and other types of international travelers. METHODS AND FINDINGS Three distinct populations of travelers with past or planned travel to malaria-endemic countries of SSA were surveyed: VFRs diagnosed with malaria as reported through a state health department; members of the general VFR population (community); and VFR and non-VFR travelers presenting to a travel health clinic, both before their pretravel consultation and again, after return from travel. A Community Advisory Board of African immigrants and prior qualitative research informed survey development and dissemination. Across the three groups, 489 travelers completed surveys: 351 VFRs and 138 non-VFRs. VFRs who reported taking antimalarials on their last trip rated their concern about malaria higher than those who did not. Having taken five or more trips to SSA was reported more commonly among VFRs diagnosed with malaria than community VFRs (44.0% versus 20.4%; p = 0.008). Among travel health clinic patients surveyed before and after travel, VFR travelers were less successful than non-VFRs in adhering to their planned use of antimalarials (82.2% versus 98.7%; p = 0.001) and employing mosquito bite avoidance techniques (e.g., using bed nets: 56.8% versus 81.8%; p = 0.009). VFRs who visited the travel health clinic were more likely than VFR respondents from the community to report taking an antimalarial (83.0% versus 61.9%; p = 0.009), or to report bite avoidance behaviors (e.g., staying indoors when mosquitoes were out: 80.9% versus 59.5%; p = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS We observed heterogeneity in malaria prevention behaviors among VFRs and between VFR and non-VFR traveler populations. Although VFRs attending the travel health clinic appear to demonstrate better adherence to malaria prevention measures than VFR counterparts surveyed in the community, specialized pretravel care is not sufficient to ensure chemoprophylaxis use and bite avoidance behaviors among VFRs. Even when seeking specialized pretravel care, VFRs experience greater barriers to the use of malaria prevention than non-VFRs. Addressing access to health care and upstream barrier reduction strategies that make intended prevention more achievable, affordable, easier, and resonant among VFRs may improve malaria prevention intervention effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah R Volkman
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Emily J Walz
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN, United States of America
| | | | | | - Anne Frosch
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
- Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | | | - Patricia F Walker
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
- HealthPartners Institute, Bloomington, MN, United States of America
| | - Kristina M Angelo
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Christina Coyle
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Mimi A Mohamud
- Minnesota Department of Health, St Paul, MN, United States of America
| | - Esther Mwangi
- Minnesota Department of Health, St Paul, MN, United States of America
| | | | - Comfort Nchanji
- Minnesota Department of Health, St Paul, MN, United States of America
| | - Rebecca S Johnson
- Sierra Leone Community in Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Baninla Ladze
- Minnesota Cameroon Community, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Stephen J Dunlop
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
- Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - William M Stauffer
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
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