How can the complex epidemiology of malaria in India impact its elimination?

Malaria is a human health hazard in the tropical and subtropical zones of the globe and is poised to be eliminated by the year 2030. Despite a decrease in incidence in the past two decades, many endemic countries, including India, report cases regularly. The epidemiology of malaria in India is unique owing to several features of the Plasmodium parasites, Anopheles vectors, ecoepidemiological situations conducive to disease transmission, and susceptible humans living in rural and for-ested areas. Limitations in public health reach, and poor health-seeking behaviour of vulnerable populations living in hard-to-reach areas, add to the problem. We bring all of these factors together in a comprehensive framework and opine that, in spite of complexities, targeted elimination of malaria in India is achievable with planned programmatic approaches.

Automated summary

Malaria is a significant health hazard in tropical and subtropical areas, with the goal of elimination by 2030. Despite a decrease in incidence, countries like India continue to report cases regularly. The unique epidemiology of malaria in India, including specific parasite and vector characteristics, conducive ecoepidemiological situations, and vulnerable populations in rural and forested areas, poses challenges to public health efforts. However, targeted elimination is still achievable through planned programmatic approaches.