Spatio‐temporal incidence of malaria patients in Incheon Metropolitan City

Abstract

AbstractMalaria, a globally significant mosquito‐borne infectious disease, re‐emerged in the Republic of Korea, and manifested annually in regions close to the demilitarized zone. Notably, Incheon Metropolitan City has witnessed an alarming upswing in malaria infections in recent years, drawing attention to this public health issue. This research was conducted to catch spatio‐temporal and ecological landscape encompassing malaria patients and mosquito vectors in Incheon over the past decade. The top two incidences of malaria cases were found in Ganghwa‐gun and Seo‐gu, an occurrence potentially attributed to their geographic proximity to North Korea. Furthermore, the incidence of malaria infections displayed a seasonal pattern commencing in March, reaching its peak between June and August, and decreasing to a minimum in November. A correlation was noted between prevalence of malaria cases and number of mosquito breeding sites, such as ponds and rice fields within the region. Collectively, these research outcomes underlined the importance of systematically and holistically advocating mosquito elimination measures to enhance the efficacy of malaria eradication policies. These measures encompass the establishment of a robust mosquito outbreak surveillance system, targeted control of vector mosquitoes, residual pesticide spray, management of mosquito breeding sites, and adoption of repellents during outdoor activities.