Retrospective analysis of malaria surveillance data in the former Southern Nations, Nationalities, and peoples’ region, Ethiopia (2017–2021)

Malaria remains a major public health concern in many low-income nations, including Ethiopia. Monitoring malaria trends through surveillance data is critical for informing control efforts and guiding stakeholders. As a result, we analyzed the five-year trend of malaria morbidity and mortality, distribution of malaria cases by Plasmodium species, demographic characteristics, and geographic areas, and identified potential gaps in malaria control efforts in the former Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region (SNNPR), Ethiopia, from 2017 to 2021 retrospectively. This study aimed to conduct a retrospective analysis of malaria surveillance data in the former SNNPR, Ethiopia (2017–2021). A retrospective analysis of malaria surveillance data from the former SNNPR was conducted from February 1 to 28, 2022. Data were collected, entered, cleaned, and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2016. Descriptive analysis was performed, and results were presented using figures and maps. Overall, 6,292,147 suspected malaria cases were tested, with 999,687 (15.89%) confirmed positive in the laboratory and treated. Among confirmed malaria cases, 679,787 (68%) were caused by Plasmodium falciparum and 319,900 (32%) by Plasmodium vivax. Additionally, 16,023(1.6%) were clinically diagnosed without laboratory confirmation. Malaria cases increased from 214,095 (13 per 1,000) in July 2021 to 270,274 (16 per 1,000) in December 2021. Over the five years, the highest malaria cases were reported in South Omo (22%), Gamo (19%), Wolaita (17%), Gofa (10%), and Hadiya (5%) zones. On average, 206,942 malaria cases were reported annually, with an incidence rate of 12 cases per 1,000 population, indicating a moderate risk level for the region. The malaria burden strata of the former SNNPR showed that transmission levels were moderate (annual parasite incidence (API) 10–100 cases per 1000) [Basketo, South Omo, Gofa, Konso, Gamo, Derashe, Ale, Wolaita, and Burji]; low (API 1–10 cases per 1,000) [Halaba, Amaro, Kambata, Silte, Hadya, Gedeo, and Gurage]; and very low or pre-elimination (API < 1 case per 1,000) [Yem special district]. Malaria continues to be a significant health challenge in the former SNNPR, with ongoing transmission in South Omo, Basketo, Gofa, Gamo, Derashe, Ale, Wolaita, and Burji. Seasonal peaks and increasing trends in 2021 highlight the need for action. We recommend enhancing surveillance, focusing on high-burden regions, and expanding vector control and community education, especially before peak seasons, to reduce transmission and achieve elimination goals.