An epidemiological investigation of outbreak of Project Malaria in PHC area of Rajkot district, Gujarat, India, 2014

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An epidemiological investigation of outbreak of Project Malaria in PHC area of Rajkot district, Gujarat, India, 2014

Journal Title: Healthline - Year 2014, Vol 5, Issue 2

Abstract

 Introduction/ Background: Gujarat is an endemic state for malaria with Annual Parasitic Incidence (API) between 1 and 2. During this calendar year, total 3291 cases of malaria were reported till October month in Rajkot district. The highest contribution was from the Primary Health Center (PHC) of Bharatnagar area (1863 cases). The present study investigates the epidemiological distribution of the malaria cases and determinants which contributed towards the outbreak of malaria in Bharatnagar PHC with special focus on industrial belt. Method: The study was carried out based on the secondary data generated as a part of National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP) through active surveillance and routine health care at PHC & CHC as passive surveillance. Also meetings with the local health staff, local stakeholders and migrant workers etc, as well as field visits to observe the ecological situation were carried out. Observations: The incidence of malaria cases has increased double fold every year in Bharatnagar PHC since year 2011. Out of total cases, almost half of the cases (up to July) were reported from industrial project sites. Two peaks were observed respectively in months of May and August 2014 (121 and 169 cases respectively), with intermediate fall in the number of cases in June, July and again in September, October. Climate, water and irrigation as well as ecological factors affecting this outbreak were studied. Discussion: Rapid development of industrial belt with influx of new migrants from tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh and east Gujarat might have contributed to sudden increase in malaria incidence in month of May. This was followed by prompt measures taken by PHC like IRS and EDPT. However, with initiation of rainy season at the end of July, again sharp peak was observed in the month of August. This was followed by gradual fall after second round of IRS and continued EDPT. Conclusion and Recommendations: Looking to the epidemiological factors, high transmission would remain till the construction would be going on. Strengthening of active surveillance by deputing/ filling the vacant post of MPWs, motivation and proper training should be carried out. Mass screening of incoming migrants with Rapid Diagnostic Kit (RDT) for malaria followed by prompt treatment. Quality assured regular IRS (Indoor Residual Spray) should be continued over the monthly time period.

Authors and Affiliations

A Kadri, C Veravadiya, M Rangoonwala, V Pathak

Keywords

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EP ID EP163636
DOI -
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