Estimating the impact of imported malaria on local transmission in a near elimination setting: a case study from Bhutan

Bhutan has achieved a substantial reduction in both malaria morbidity and mortality over the last two decades and is aiming for malaria elimination certification in 2025. However, a significant percentage of malaria cases in Bhutan are imported (acquired in another country). The aim of the study was to understand how importation drives local malaria transmission in Bhutan.

Citation:
Wangdi K, Unwin HJT, Penjor K, ……. Gething P. Estimating the impact of imported malaria on local transmission in a near elimination setting: a case study from Bhutan. Lancet Reg Heal Southeast Asia. 2024;31.

Keywords:
Bhutan; Malaria; Elimination; Hawkes processes; Surveillance; Transmission

Abstract:
Bhutan has achieved a substantial reduction in both malaria morbidity and mortality over the last two decades and is aiming for malaria elimination certification in 2025. However, a significant percentage of malaria cases in Bhutan are imported (acquired in another country). The aim of the study was to understand how importation drives local malaria transmission in Bhutan.