Impact of DDT re-introduction on malaria transmission in KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

Objectives: To determine whether the re-introduction of DDT in KwaZulu-Natal had any effects on malaria transmission in the province.

Design, setting and subjects: The 2000 malaria epidemic in KwaZulu-Natal has been attributed to pyrethroid-resistant anopheles mosquitoes in the area. Previous studies have shown that these mosquitoes are still susceptible to DDT. To determine whether DDT re-introduction had any impact on malaria transmission in KwaZulu-Natal, the following variables (pre- and post-epidemic) were investigated: (i) the number of reported cases; and (ii) the distribution of Anopheles funestus in relation to the insecticides sprayed.

Outcome measures: The notified malaria cases and the distribution of A. funestus were measured to determine the effects of DDT re-introduction on malaria transmission.

Results and conclusion: After DDT re-introduction, the number of malaria cases decreased to levels lower than those recorded before the epidemic. A. funestus appears to have been eradicated from the province. The combination of an effective insecticide and effective antimalarial drugs in KwaZulu-Natal has resulted in a 91% decline in the malaria incidence rate. Unfortunately the continued exclusive use of DDT within the malarious areas of the province is threatened by the emergence of insecticide resistance.