Parasitological Research
The Epidemiology of Highland Malaria in Africa
The project consists of three phases. Phase 1a was responsible for delineating the risk areas.
Products of this phase were:
- A raster map delineating and stratifying areas of risk based on rainfall, temperature and altitude, using existing climate surfaces and digital elevation models for Africa
- Country scale stratification maps, including contextual information such as towns, rivers, administrative boundaries, etc., for use in Phase 1b
Phase1b validated the products of Phase 1a using published and unpublished data as well as the opinion of health authorities in the countries where epidemics have previously occurred. It also carried out a rapid assessment of contributory risk factors associated with recorded epidemics as well as a preliminary assessment of the suitability of sites for Phase 2. The data from this phase served as a guide to the production of a standardised and detailed protocol for Phase 2. This Phase further identified suitable country sites and individuals for Phase 2 .
Phase 2 will collect real time data that was not available in Phase 1b e.g. local knowledge may indicate that an epidemic occurred in a particular region however no quantitative malaria data may exist against which risk factors can be assessed. Due to the intermittent nature of epidemics spatially and temporally, Phase 2 will make use of rapid response teams following standardised procedures.
Collaborators
Medical Research Council, Dr J Cox, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, WHO/ Representatives from highland Malaria countries.
Funding
WHO/Tropical Diseases Research and International Development Research Centre.