Preventing Congenital Malaria: Context Matters Globally
Gabriel Dogbanya
Abstract
Background: Congenital malaria results from vertical transmission of Plasmodium parasites from mother to fetus and it remains a significant, yet often under-recognized public health issue. It is primarily observed in malaria-endemic regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Asia, and South America. However, it is an emerging concern in non-endemic developed countries due to increased international travel, economic migration, and conflict-induced displacement. These healthcare systems often lack the capacity to effectively recognize and manage tropical diseases, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Major challenges include low clinical suspicion, inadequate antenatal screening, weak surveillance systems, and poor strategies for drug resistance mitigation. The prevalence of congenital malaria varies widely, from 0% in Colombia to 46.7% in Nigeria, highlighting significant contextual and geographic disparities. These differences underscore global inequities in maternal and neonatal care and malaria prevention efforts. Leveraging on Innovative tools, such as Thailand’s electronic malaria information system (eMIS) which demonstrates how adaptable digital tools can strengthen surveillance and response systems, countries can adopt novel, context-sensitive, culturally competent, adaptable and acceptable approaches that strengthens the health systems to meet the challenges of malaria in pregnancy locally while fostering international collaboration. This article explores the global burden of congenital malaria, highlighting the contextual factors and intervention gaps, emphasizing early detection, prompt treatment and optimal outcomes for mothers and newborns
across diverse settings.
