Trends in Malaria cases by Plasmodium type in West Sumatra province: Analysis of 2017-2023

Malaria is a serious infectious disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite that is transmitted through the bite of female Anopheles mosquitoes. This disease remains a significant global health problem, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Malaria prevention involves a variety of integrated strategies, including vector control such as environmental management to reduce mosquito breeding sites, malaria prevention efforts are important for public health. This study analyzed malaria case trends in West Sumatra Province over the period 2017 to 2023, focusing on the distribution of Plasmodium species and the effectiveness of malaria control programs. The results showed a significant decrease in cases, especially in the Mentawai Islands, which recorded a decrease from 220 cases in 2017 to 25 cases in 2023 (88.6% decrease). The most common species are Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, while mixed-species infections are becoming a new challenge in diagnosis. Key risk factors include poor environment, inadequate drainage systems and stagnant water, which increases the risk in border and island areas compared to urban areas. Effective control strategies include the use of insecticide-treated bed nets, insecticide spraying and housing improvements, supported by data-driven surveillance technologies. While some areas such as Dharmasraya and Pasaman have become malaria-free, the Mentawai Islands remain a priority focus. Research recommendations include strengthening laboratory diagnosis systems, molecular surveillance, and community education to improve prevention behavior. With an evidence-based adaptive approach, achieving the national malaria elimination target by 2030 is expected. This study highlights the importance of an integrated combination of local strategies to ensure the sustainability of malaria case reduction in West Sumatra.