Clinico-Epidemiological Profile of Malaria

BACKGROUND Malaria is a major public health problem in India. The clinical manifestations of Malaria range from mild symptoms to severe disease. Death was also observed in many parts of the country. We aimed to study the clinical, epidemiological profile and incidence of Malaria in Bidar district among patients visiting teaching hospital from periphery of the district. METHODS A total of 300 blood samples were collected from cases with history of high fever, chills, profuse sweating, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and muscle pain. Thick and thin smear preparation and examination were carried out. RESULTS Out of 300 samples collected, 13 smears were positive for Malaria (4 cases of P. falciparum and 9 cases of P. vivax) Majority of subjects were in the age group of 26 - 35 years, males were affected more compared to females. No statistically significant result was observed. CONCLUSIONS Sporadic pattern of Malaria incidences was observed in the Bidar district. These areas have inadequate sanitation and constant water stagnation, harbouring high vector density and contributing to high infection. Heightened preventive and hygienic measures through educational programmes may substantially reduce the risk of contracting infections in these areas.