Imported malaria and conflict: 50 years of experience in the U.S. Military

Abstract

Over the last 50 years, members of the U.S. military have faced the threat of malaria in diverse geographical locations and operational situations, resulting in considerable morbidity and mortality. However, because malaria may be transported out of endemic areas and into areas that are free of malaria, the threat does not end with redeployment. Since the Korean Conflict, outbreaks of imported malaria have followed every major deployment of U.S. military forces to malaria endemic areas. By examining unique aspects of these outbreaks through the years, many similarities can be drawn. Repeated observations demonstrate that preventive efforts are only effective at reducing the impact of imported malaria when commanders are informed about the risks of malaria. Commanders must also understand the preventive resources that are available while deployed, and the potential for morbidity and mortality from malaria.