Malaria Trends and Clusters in Bhutan
Author Information
Author(s): Wangdi Kinley, Kaewkungwal Jaranit, Singhasivanon Pratap, Silawan Tassanee, Lawpoolsri Saranath, White Nicholas J
Primary Institution: Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
Hypothesis
What are the spatio-temporal patterns of malaria infection in Bhutan as the country aims for malaria elimination?
Conclusion
There is a significant decrease in malaria trends in Bhutan, attributed to successful control and preventive measures.
Supporting Evidence
- Malaria cases decreased from 39,852 in 1994 to 1,868 in 2006.
- The highest malaria cases were reported in the age group of 15-45 years.
- Indoor residual spraying and insecticide-treated nets were key control measures.
Takeaway
Malaria cases in Bhutan are going down, but some areas still have clusters of infections that need attention.
Methodology
Poisson regression was used to analyze malaria incidence trends from 1994 to 2008, and Spatial Empirical Bayesian smoothing identified clusters from 2004 to 2008.
Limitations
The study may not account for all environmental and behavioral factors influencing malaria transmission.
Participant Demographics
The population under study included individuals from seven malaria endemic districts in Bhutan, with a higher incidence in males aged 15-45 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
0.94-0.94
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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