THE MAGNITUDE AND PATTERN OF MALARIA IN DISTRICT KOHAT

Background: Malaria is a vector-borne infectious disease having a great potential to affect more people if neglected. This study aimed to know the magnitude of malaria and its various species in the local population. Material Methods: This retrospective study was conducted from 2004 to 2012 in the District Teaching Hospital, Kohat. Blood was taken from adult patients suspected for malaria. Thick and thin blood smears were prepared and stained with 10% Giemsa solution for microscopic diagnosis in the laboratory specified section for malaria. Negative slides were counter checked by another technician and positive slides were counter checked by consultant for species identification. Data was recorded for each month of the year for nine years. Results: Out of 31128 samples, 2578(8.28%) were positive for malaria. Among positive cases, 1294 were males and 1284 females. There were 2226(86.34%) samples positive for Plasmodium vivax and 325(13.65%) for Plasmodium falciparum. No mixed infection was recorded. Malaria remained at peak from June to October. In 2004 to 2009, malaria was in range of 3.8 to 6.45% but in 2010 and 2011 it increased to 10.65 and 14.o6% respectively. Plasmodium falciparum was at peak during September to November. P. vivax predominantly remained in mean of 86.34% to 13.65% of P. falciparum. In 2010 it reduced to 42.42% of P. vivax and P. falciparum enhanced to 57.58%. No case of Plasmodium ovale or Plasmodium malariae was recorded. Conclusion: Malaria is on gradual increase in this area. Plasmodium vivax is more frequent than Plasmodium falciparum. Malaria peak months are June to October