Malaria, whose name derives from the Italian “mal’aira” (bad air), is an endemic disease in tropical and subtropical regions and continues to be considered a neglected disease. In Brazil, most cases occur in the Northern Region, accounting for more than 99% of autochthonous infections. This concentration is due to factors such as a climate favorable to vector proliferation (Anopheles spp.), presence of extractive activities, lack of adequate basic sanitation, and limited access to health services. The main etiological agents in the country are Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum. To describe the main epidemiological aspects of malaria in Northern Brazil between 2013 and 2023, focusing on temporal, spatial, and sociodemographic patterns. Descriptive epidemiological study using data extracted from the Sistema de Informação de Vigilância Epidemiológica da Malária (SIVEP-Malária), covering confirmed cases between January 2013 and December 2023. Variables analyzed included state of occurrence, causative species, sex, age group, occupation, probable place of infection, and temporal distribution. The Northern Region accounted for approximately 90% of national cases, especially in the states of Amazonas, Acre, and Pará. P. vivax accounted for 80–90% of cases, followed by P. falciparum. Most infected individuals were male, aged 20–49 years, working in activities such as fishing, mining, and agriculture. A seasonal pattern was identified, with peaks between December and May, the period of higher rainfall. Despite a downward trend in recent years, outbreaks still occur, especially in indigenous areas and vulnerable communities. Although there has been a reduction in cases, malaria remains an important public health challenge in Northern Brazil. Environmental conditions and the socioeconomic profile of exposed populations favor continued transmission. Thus, there is a need for specific regional strategies for prevention, early diagnosis, access to treatment, and active surveillance for disease control and future elimination.
Pinheiro et al. (2026) studied this question.