Epidemiological trends of malaria between 2018 and 2020 in Sennar State, Sudan

Background Malaria remains a major health issue worldwide, especially in Africa, and has long been a challenging public health threat in Sudan, with a history of endemicity and outbreaks, with a significant disease burden. This study aims to provide analysis of malaria prevalence, incidence, and associated deaths, shedding light on the evolving burden of the disease in Sennar state, Sudan to contribute valuable data to the global understanding of malaria epidemiology. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between 2018 to 2020 through individual interviews using open-ended questionnaires to investigate the incidence of malaria fever and death and through malaria parasite detection using rapid diagnostic tests. Frequencies of fever incidence, malaria prevalence, and malaria-related death were calculated as well as percentage change in malaria prevalence and malaria incidence rates per 1000 population. Results In 2018, the overall malaria prevalence was relatively low at 2.8%, but increased to 4.8% in 2019 and subsequently decreased to 3.3% in 2020. The overall malaria fever prevalence stood at 41.0% and surged in 2019 to 58.5%, however, in 2020, the prevalence dropped to 48.4%. The changes in malaria and fever incidence over time revealed a complex pattern of local variations and fluctuations. Malaria-related deaths in 2018 and 2019, were 12 deaths/year. However, in 2020, the number of deaths increased to 22 deaths. The percentage change in malaria prevalence from 2018 to 2019 and from 2019 to 2020 showed evolving malaria transmission patterns. In 2019, Sennar experienced a 71.4% increase in prevalence compared to 2018, while in 2020, the prevalence decreased by 31.2% compared to 2019. Conclusions This study highlights the need for adaptable strategies in response to the changing malaria epidemiology. Monitoring and responding to fluctuations in the disease's dynamics and tailoring region-specific interventions are key measures for effective disease control.