Work

Notes from the Field: Locally Acquired Mosquito-Transmitted (Autochthonous) Plasmodium falciparum Malaria — National Capital Region, Maryland, August 2023

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: Although malaria was eliminated in the United States in the mid-1950s, approximately 2,000 malaria cases are imported into the United States from regions with endemic disease transmission each year, including approximately 200 in Maryland* (Figure ) (1).Anopheles mosquito species that can transmit * https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/OIDEOR/CIDSOR/Pages/disease- conditions-count-rates.aspx malaria exist in many areas in the United States (2).Locally acquired mosquito-transmitted (i.e., autochthonous) cases have not been identified since 2003; however, these imported cases represent a potential source of infection.In mid-2023, eight autochthonous malaria cases (Plasmodium vivax) were identified in Florida and Texas (3); in both states, the autochthonous cases occurred in the vicinity of an imported malaria case. Investigation and OutcomesOn August 6, a previously healthy resident of the Maryland National Capital Region was evaluated for a 7-day history of fever, malaise, and myalgias.In the months preceding symptom onset, the patient reported daily walks near home and an occurrence of a tick attachment but no international travel, blood transfusions, intravenous drug use, or other potential exposures to bloodborne pathogens.

Source: MMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report

DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7241a3