Changes in the notification requirements for Malaria – impact on data completeness and challenges in the transition phase

Germany has been free of endemic malaria since the 1950s. However, climate change is increasingly leading to conditions in Europe that may favor the spread of both domestic and imported anopheles mosquitoes, as well as the transmission of plasmodia. In 2023, the notification requirements for plasmodia detection under § 7(3) IfSG changed to § 7(1) IfSG). The aim was to involve local health authorities in the reporting process and strengthen national malaria surveillance. While these objectives were largely achieved, the transition phase presented challenges, leading to recommendations for future changes in notification requirements.

(Article in German)