Mozzwise Briefing

Ethiopia has seasonal mosquito activity that varies dramatically with altitude and region. The lowlands below 2,000 meters experience peak risk during and after the main rains from June through September and the shorter rains from February through April. The Rift Valley, Gambella, and lowland border areas carry the highest malaria burden. Addis Ababa and the central highlands have minimal malaria risk.

Malaria (P. falciparum and P. vivax) is the primary concern, with Ethiopia having a mixed species profile where P. vivax accounts for a significant proportion of cases. Dengue fever has emerged in eastern lowland areas. Chikungunya, yellow fever, and lymphatic filariasis are also present.

Anopheles gambiae is the dominant malaria vector in the lowlands. Anopheles stephensi has recently been detected, raising concerns about urban malaria expansion. The extreme altitudinal range means risk varies enormously across the country.