Malaria in Lebanon emerging cases, transmission, and prevention

Malaria, a parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium species and transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes, remains one of the world’s leading infectious killers. Typical symptoms include fever, chills, headache, and fatigue; in severe cases, anaemia and organ failure can develop. Although malaria is both preventable and curable, its elimination depends on sustained surveillance and rapid response systems.

Malaria in Lebanon

The Beiruter spoke with the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), which confirmed that Lebanon continues to record imported malaria cases, primarily linked to expatriates returning from countries where the disease remains endemic. Occasionally, the Ministry also documents isolated cases with no confirmed travel history, a pattern observed in several previous years.

The MoPH emphasized that malaria can be transmitted through infected blood, not solely by mosquito bites, but cannot spread directly from person to person. During the summer season, a few cases with no travel link were identified among a total of 234 travel-related infections, consistent with annual averages. All individuals meeting the screening criteria were tested, with results returning negative. Mosquito samples collected from the affected areas also confirmed the absence of malaria-carrying Anopheles species.

In response, the Ministry issued a routine circular to hospitals to reinforce awareness about malaria symptoms and the importance of early diagnosis. Surveillance of communicable and emerging diseases continues under the oversight of a national committee that brings together specialists from both the public and private sectors.

Dr. Naji Aoun: “Vigilance, Not Panic”

Recent reports of malaria have raised public concern, yet experts stress that Lebanon faces no outbreak.

In an interview with The Beiruter, Professor Naji Aoun, Head of the Infectious Diseases Department at Clemenceau Medical Center and Assistant Dean at the University of Balamand’s International Medical Programs, outlines the realities of transmission, prevention, and national preparedness.

Malaria is in the blood not everywhere

The parasite is transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito, though exceptionally it may spread via contaminated needles or blood transfusions. The infection cycle begins when a mosquito bites an infected individual, allowing parasites to multiply in the insect’s salivary glands. A subsequent bite transfers the parasite to another person, initiating infection.

Current situation

Dr. Aoun confirms that roughly four malaria cases were documented in Lebanon over the past year, in regions including the Bekaa Valley and the South. While several were travel-related, others appeared locally acquired, prompting epidemiological investigations into possible atypical transmission.

“We, as infection specialists, confirm these cases are real, and transparency is essential,” he notes, urging the Ministry of Public Health to implement a standardized national reporting system similar to those of the CDC and ECDC.

Prevention and control

Effective mosquito control remains the cornerstone of prevention. Dr. Aoun stresses the need to eliminate stagnant water in gardens and rooftops, ensure proper maintenance of water tanks, and improve sewage infrastructure to limit breeding grounds.

He calls for coordination among the Ministries of Health, Agriculture, and Environment, alongside public awareness campaigns encouraging the use of repellents, bed nets, and protective clothing.

Diagnosis and treatment

Lebanon possesses the technical capacity to detect malaria through PCR-based blood testing and follows WHO-aligned treatment protocols supervised by the Ministry of Public Health. Dr. Aoun emphasizes equal access to diagnostic and treatment services across all regions, particularly for returning travelers from endemic areas. He advises those visiting sub-Saharan Africa to adhere to preventive medication and mosquito-avoidance guidelines issued by WHO and the CDC.

“The situation does not warrant panic, but vigilance is crucial,” Dr. Aoun affirms.

Citizens and the state share responsibility in maintaining preventive measures.

With robust surveillance, inter-ministerial cooperation, and informed public engagement, Lebanon can continue to safeguard its malaria-free status and strengthen resilience against re-introduction, transforming past success into sustainable health security.