Summary

In this study session, you have learned that:

• A malaria epidemic is defined as the occurrence of cases in excess of the number expected in a given place and time period.
• The factors that trigger the occurrence of malaria epidemics are linked to environmental factors, human factors and parasite-related factors; the change in the balance between these factors leads to malaria epidemics.
• It is important to get prepared by having 25% contingency stock of anti-malaria drugs and other supplies to control unexpected malaria epidemics that might happen at any time.
• The three major interventions that you have to implement to prevent the occurrence of predicted malaria epidemics are indoor residual insecticide spraying, larval control, and distribution and correct use of ITNs.
• The two main methods you use to detect malaria epidemics as early as possible are construction of an epidemic monitoring chart using the second largest number method, and the use of doubling of weekly malaria cases compared to last year’s data.
• To contain a malaria epidemic, you implement mass fever treatment and vector control measures.
• Post-epidemic assessment of the response to malaria epidemics helps to evaluate the weaknesses and strengths of the response activities for better preparation for future epidemics.