Malaria surveillance in Germany 2000/2001 -: Results and experience with a new reporting system

In Germany, malaria is one of the most frequently imported infectious diseases. In January 2001, the newly implemented Infektionsschutzgesetz (Law for Protection Against Infectious Diseases) brought some important changes in surveillance case notification procedures. After one year, experience shows that the changes did not affect the continuity and representative nature of malaria reporting in Germany. In the years 2000 and 2001, 836 and 1,040 malaria cases, respectively, were reported. In both years, most of the patients were between 30 and 49 years old. 82% of the infections had been acquired in Africa, and 11% in Asia. The predominant parasite species was P. falciparum (70%), followed by A vivax (12% in 2000, and 16% in 2001, respectively). The majority of infections occurred among tourists, fewer in immigrants or business travellers. About two thirds of all patients had not taken any chemoprophylaxis tics. Compared to previous years a decrease in the number of fatal cases was observed (1998: 21,1999: 18, 2000: 8, 2001: 8). To ameliorate the situation of imported malaria intensified prevention activities are necessary, including efforts to improve choice and compliance of chemoprophylaxis and to facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment.