Clinico-epidemiological profile of malaria: Analysis from a primary health centre in Karnataka, Southern India

Malaria continues to be a major public health problem in India and worldwide. The present study was based on records from a primary health centre in Karnataka. Morbidity patterns and important features of malaria transmission specific to Udupi district were investigated. The incidence of malaria and various morbidity patterns during 2010 and 2011 were compared and analyzed. Factors such as rapid urbanization, increased construction activities and influx of migratory workers were highlighted as the leading causes for the advent of malaria in the area. Recommendations have been provided for implementation in the near future. INRTRODUCTION Malaria continues to be a heavy social and health burden in India, with an estimated 1.52 million cases reported in 2009 that accounted for 60% of cases in the SEAR 1 . With nearly 95% of its population residing in malaria-endemic areas, India is battling the burden through implementation of the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP). Through continuous efforts of the NVBDCP, malaria is now on a declining trend but P. falciparum cases are increasin 3 .