BACKGROUND: We aimed at knowing the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of imported malaria in Maresme county (Barcelona), Spain. PATIENTS AND METHOD: A descriptive and retrospective study of patients diagnosed with imported malaria at the Hospital de Mataró (HM) (1982-2000). RESULTS: 64 cases of malaria were diagnosed, which supposed a significant increase in its incidence over the last decade. The disease mostly affected men (83%) as well as young and sub-Saharan immigrants (72%). 17% of affected people were immigrants' children. 50% cases were diagnosed in August-September. 80% of species corresponded to Plasmodium falciparum, either alone or in association with other species. Only 10% of patients underwent a correct chemoprophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS: Imported malaria is an emergent, potentially mortal, illness, which has to be taken into account in high-rate immigration areas. Prophylaxis compliance and knowledge is low.
BACKGROUND: We aimed at knowing the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of imported malaria in Maresme county (Barcelona), Spain. PATIENTS AND METHOD: A descriptive and retrospective study of patients diagnosed with imported malaria at the Hospital de Mataró (HM) (1982-2000). RESULTS: 64 cases of malaria were diagnosed, which supposed a significant increase in its incidence over the last decade. The disease mostly affected men (83%) as well as young and sub-Saharan immigrants (72%). 17% of affected people were immigrants' children. 50% cases were diagnosed in August-September. 80% of species corresponded to Plasmodium falciparum, either alone or in association with other species. Only 10% of patients underwent a correct chemoprophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS: Imported malaria is an emergent, potentially mortal, illness, which has to be taken into account in high-rate immigration areas. Prophylaxis compliance and knowledge is low.