Investigating Malaria Susceptibility in Central Maluku District: A Focus on Anopheles Mosquito Habitats

Abstract

Malaria remains a formidable challenge to global public health, with an estimated 241 million cases reported across 85 endemic countries in 2020. Within this context, Indonesia, and particularly the Central Maluku Regency, has reported a notable burden of the disease, evidenced by 102 confirmed cases in 2022 as per the annual parasite incidence (API) data, highlighting indigenous transmissions in specific locales. This research was conducted to assess the susceptibility to malaria within the operational area of the Hila Perawatan Primary Healthcare Centre (Puskesmas), situated in the Leihitu sub-district of Ambon Island, through an examination of Anopheles mosquito breeding sites, larval densities, and habitat indices. Employing a descriptive research design, this cross-sectional observational study was carried out on October 26-27, 2023, to meticulously document the ecological footprint of the Anopheles mosquito, particularly Anopheles farauti. Findings reveal a habitat index (HI) of 33% in Kaitetu village with a larval density of 20%, indicating a significant presence of Anopheles farauti larvae. These findings suggest that environmental and behavioral factors within households, such as the use of gauze and ceilings, nocturnal activities, application of mosquito repellents, wearing of long-sleeved clothing, and utilization of mosquito nets, are pivotal in influencing malaria transmission dynamics. This study underscores the imperative of integrating environmental management with community engagement strategies to mitigate malaria transmission in endemic regions. The results not only provide a nuanced understanding of the Anopheles mosquito's breeding patterns and its implications for malaria transmission but also offer a foundational basis for tailoring targeted interventions aimed at reducing the malaria burden in the Central Maluku District.