Malaria in Laconia, Greece, then and now: A 2500-year-old pattern

Abstract

Background: Malaria is still an active threat in many areas of the world. In Greece, in an area of the Laconia region, malaria epidemics have been recorded since as early as the 5th century BC. A local outbreak of malaria was reported in the summer/autumn of 2011. Method: A comparative research study of historical and modern sources was carried out in order to explore the malaria outbreaks occurring in the area of Laconia, Greece. Results: The study revealed that the central area (Elos and Skala), the peak season (early autumn), the Plasmodium species (P. vivax), the mosquito vector (Anopheles sacharovi), and the risk factors (wetlands and population movements) have, more or less, remained unchanged throughout the 2500-year span in Laconia. Conclusions: Unique regional features preserve a seemingly recurring pattern of malaria outbreaks in this area of Greece. This study, based on low-cost effective research, offers a clear public health message. The Greek authorities responsible for health policy could build upon these findings in order to achieve the desired eradication. © 2012 International Society for Infectious Diseases