ABSTRACT

Malaria is still an important public health problem both in Turkey and worldwide. In this research, we examined the epidemiology of malaria using the data provided by the Malaria Control Unit of the Infectious Disease Division of Ordu Health Directory, from the years 2002 to 2011.

The retrospective study was performed on data from the Provincial Health Directory. The cases were evaluated according to age groups, gender, locations, months and parasite species.

In the last 10 year period, a total of 31,575 blood samples were evaluated and 6 malaria cases (0.02%) were detected. Positive cases were examined all patients aged 15 years old and over. Cases were found to be imported cases coming to Ordu from other countries. The agent in half of cases was found to be Plasmodium vivax; Plasmodium falciparum was determined in the other half. All P. falciparum cases were found to be imported cases coming to Ordu from abroad.

In this study, determination of the state of information on malaria in Ordu was the target, with the aim of using these data to contribute to the epidemiological data of malaria in our country. In addition, the protective measures to be taken against the disease are thought to be helpful. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2013; 37: 69-72)

Keywords: Ordu, malaria, epidemiology