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Open Access 01-12-2021 | Bubonic Plague | Research article

A decade of plague in Madagascar: a description of two hotspot districts

Authors: Sitraka Rakotosamimanana, Daouda Kassie, François Taglioni, Josélyne Ramamonjisoa, Fanjasoa Rakotomanana, Minoarisoa Rajerison

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2021

Abstract

Background

Human plague cases, mainly in the bubonic form, occur annually in endemic regions of the central highlands of Madagascar. The aim of this study was to compare the dynamics of the epidemiological features of the human plague in two districts of the central highlands region.

Methods

In Madagascar, all clinically suspected plague cases that meet clinical and epidemiological criteria specified in the World Health Organization (WHO) standard case definition are reported to the national surveillance system. Data on plague cases reported between 2006 and 2015 in the districts of Ambositra and Tsiroanomandidy were analysed. Statistical comparisons between the epidemiological characteristics of the two districts were conducted.

Results

A total of 840 cases of plague were reported over the studied period, including 563 (67%) probable and confirmed cases (P + C). Out of these P + C cases, nearly 86% (488/563) were cases of bubonic plague. Reported clinical forms of plague were significantly different between the districts from 2006 to 2015 (p = 0.001). Plague cases occurred annually in a period of 10 years in the Tsiroanomandidy district. During the same period, the Ambositra district was characterized by a one-year absence of cases.

Conclusion

The differences in the epidemiological situation with respect to the plague from 2006 to 2015 in the two central highlands districts may suggest that several factors other than biogeographical factors determine the representation of the plague and its dynamics in this region. Considering the epidemiological situations according to the specific contexts of the districts could improve the results in the fight against the plague in Madagascar.

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Title: A decade of plague in Madagascar: a description of two hotspot districts
Authors: Sitraka Rakotosamimanana
Daouda Kassie
François Taglioni
Josélyne Ramamonjisoa
Fanjasoa Rakotomanana
Minoarisoa Rajerison
Publication date: 01-12-2021
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Bubonic Plague
Plague
Published in: BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-021-11061-8

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

A decade of plague in Madagascar: a description of two hotspot districts

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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