Abstract:
Background: Malaria is a preventable and treatable disease that is transmitted to
humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Understanding the trends in the
factors that contribute to malaria transmission is essential for the timely
development of effective prevention and control strategies. Objective: This study
analyzed the trends relationships between rainfall, temperature, and confirmed
cases of malaria in Mt. Elgon Sub-County over the past decade (2011-2021).
Results: The results showed a negative correlation between rainfall and confirmed
malaria cases, with a correlation coefficient of -0.36. An increase in rainfall was
associated with a decrease in confirmed malaria cases. Additionally, there was a
moderate to strong positive correlation between average temperature and
confirmed malaria cases, with a correlation coefficient of 0.16. An increase in
temperature was associated with an increase in confirmed malaria cases.
Conclusion: These results highlight the importance of understanding the role of
environmental factors in the transmission of malaria and the potential impact of
climate change on the disease transmission. Reduction in mean rainfall and an
increase in mean temperature predicts’ increased malaria and these can be used to
mobilize resources to prevent and manage the disease. Further research is needed
to better understand the complex relationships between these variables and to
identify effective strategies for preventing and controlling malaria
Description:
Article Journal on Malaria and Climate Variability: Exploring Variations in Rainfall, Temperature and
Mortality on Mt. Elgon, Kenya
