[Epidemic characteristics of imported falciparum malaria in Huai'an City].

OBJECTIVE: To understand the situation and epidemic characteristics of imported falciparum malaria in Huai'an City from 2010 to 2016, so as to provide the evidence for formulating the prevention and control strategies of imported falciparum malaria in the city.

METHODS: The epidemic data of imported falciparum malaria in Huai'an City from 2010 to 2016 were analyzed by using the descriptive epidemiological method.

RESULTS: A total of 308 malaria cases were reported in Huai'an City from 2010 to 2016 with the average annual incidence of 0.88/105 . A total of 240 imported falciparum malaria cases were reported, of which 18 cases (7.50%) developed into severe illness, and 2 severe patients died. The cases were reported in every county (district), and the incidence rates of Qingpu District and Huai'an District were higher than the city average level. The cases occurred every month, so there was no significant seasonal variation in the reporting time of the cases. Most of the patients were young men and aged 30-49 years. The occupational distribution revealed that the patients were mainly farmers, workers and migrant workers. The main source of infection was from African countries. The median interval from symptom appearing to definite diagnosis was 1 day, and the longest interval was 236 days. Twenty-nine cases were diagnosed within 24 hours, accounting for 12.08%.

CONCLUSIONS: The epidemic situation of imported falciparum malaria in Huai'an City is grim. In order to consolidate the achievements of malaria eradication, it is necessary to further improve the multi-sectoral cooperation mechanism, strengthen the management of floating population and take effective measures to reduce the risk of imported falciparum malaria.