Descriptive Epidemiology of Confirmed Malaria in Afghanistan
Keywords: Afghanistan, burden, epidemiology, communicable diseases, burden, malaria, surveillance
Sharif Ahmad Habib Ahmadzai
Abstract
Malaria continues to pose a significant public health challenge in Afghanistan and is endemic in 123 districts of Afghanistan, mostly in the southern, southeastern, and eastern provinces. This study presents a descriptive epidemiological analysis of confirmed malaria cases reported between December 2024 and May 2025 using routinely collected Ministry of Public Health surveillance data. A total of 1,246 cases were reported in week 21. We found predictable seasonal transmission patterns. The study also discovered disproportionately high incidence in eastern provinces, particularly Nuristan (42.7), Kunar (28.2), Laghman (16.1), and Nangarhar (13.7) per 10,000 population, respectively, confirming persistent hotspots of transmission. Notably, no malaria-related deaths were reported during the study period, likely due to the predominance of P. vivax and effective case management. These findings highlight the importance of geographically targeted interventions, particularly in the strengthened surveillance and prioritization of vulnerable groups. Sustained investment in community-based case management, diagnostic access, and vector control is essential to further reduce the malaria burden and align with regional elimination goals.
