Malaria Epidemiology in Forest-Fringe Villages of Block Korchi, District Gadchiroli, India

Malaria is one of the most prevalent infectious parasitic diseases worldwide, placing well over 216 million people at risk of infection. India contributes a substantial share of malaria cases in Southeast Asia, particularly in forested and tribal regions where ecological conditions favor vector breeding and transmission. Gadchiroli district in eastern Maharashtra is predominantly forest-covered and inhabited largely by tribal communities living near forest ecosystems, making it highly vulnerable to malaria transmission. Among the 12 blocks in the district, Korchi block is considered one of the most malaria-prone areas. The present study analyzed malaria surveillance data from two Primary Health Centers (PHCs), Kotgul and Botekasa, in the Korchi block to assess seasonal, demographic, parasitological, and spatial patterns of malaria incidence. A total of 443 cases were reported at Kotgul PHC and 130 cases at Botekasa PHC. Malaria incidence remained low during the pre-monsoon months (January–May) but increased sharply with the onset of the monsoon, peaking in July and declining gradually from August to December. Individuals aged ≥15 years accounted for the majority of cases, likely due to occupational exposure related to agriculture and forest activities. Plasmodium falciparum was the predominant parasite species. Spatial analysis revealed focal transmission with several hotspot villages contributing disproportionately to the disease burden. These findings highlight the importance of pre-monsoon vector control, strengthened surveillance, and hotspot-based interventions for effective malaria control.