Distribution and Transmission Dynamics of Plasmodium falciparum Malaria in Kenya

Abstract

Plasmodium falciparum is the most popular and deadly malaria parasite in Kenya. Its transmission is dependent on numerous biotic and abiotic factors. Biotic factors include mosquito and malaria parasite density in the population and the proximity to mosquito breeding sites. Abiotic factors include socio-economic background of the population and malaria intervention strategies. These factors differ from one location to another and from one social setting to another. These variations ultimately influence malaria transmission in diverse locations and settings and limit the success in global approach to malaria control. This paper reviews the influence of both biotic and abiotic factors in relation to malaria transmission and the current status of these factors over time in Kenya. We hypothesize that changes in biotic and abiotic factors is responsible for the alteration in the mosquito and the Plasmodium falciparum density and distribution, hence malaria transmission in Kenya. An insight into these factors will guide in developing effective Malaria intervention strategies in the country.

Keywords: Malaria, Plasmodium falciparum, Risk factor, Transmission.