A retrospective study of Malaria and its effect on Hematological indices in a hospital in Jizan, Saudi Arabia

Malaria is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality with a major public health importance. Nearly half of the world population is at risk of malaria. In Saudi Arabia, a series of malaria outbreaks occurred in Jizan area and vigorous action was taken by the Saudi Ministry of Health to control malaria in this area. This study aimed at investigating the incidence of malaria Jizan area in 2014 and the effect of malarial infection on several hematological indices. Data were retrospectively collected for the year 2014 from Samtah General Hospital for all malaria positive cases. A total of 44 patients results were obtained for those who were diagnosed as positive for malaria together with their hematological indices and demographic data. A total of 3674 cases were suspected of malaria and only 44 cases were positive. The highest peaks of malaria cases were seen during the months of March and December. A statistically significant reduction in the WBC and Platelet count was observed in malaria positive cases. This study suggests that the malaria control in Jizan area be continued. Providing highly qualified lab personnel and microscopist in the area is very beneficial in order to achieve the malaria eradication goal.