Prevalence of Malaria and COVID-19 Coinfection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background COVID-19, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has significantly impacted public health worldwide. However, the outcomes can be unfavourable for those living in areas where malaria is endemic and are affected by SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of coinfection between malaria and COVID-19. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature were conducted, utilizing the most important databases in the field, such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar, up to April 9, 2023, using the search terms "Malaria" and "COVID-19". Three authors independently carried out the selection of studies, evaluation of their quality, and data extraction. The Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument was used to assess the quality of the studies. In addition, heterogeneity was evaluated using the statistical test I2, and the statistical analysis was performed using the R version 4.2.3 program. Results A total of 10227 studies were retrieved, of which 13 were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of coinfection between Malaria and COVID-19 was 45% (95% CI: 16, 76). Subgroup analysis was performed based on country, and the prevalence of coinfection between Malaria and COVID-19 was highest in China (100%, 95% CI: 88, 100) and lowest in the Democratic Republic of Congo (1%, 95% CI: 0, 2). Regarding the subgroup analysis to evaluate the prevalence of different types of Plasmodium spp. in COVID-19 patients, it was found that the combined prevalence of Plasmodium spp. was 53% (95% CI: 15%-88%; 478/1011 cases). Conclusion The current research revealed a 45% prevalence of coinfection between Malaria and COVID-19. However, additional future studies are necessary to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 in Malaria-endemic areas fully. Trial registration The protocol for this systematic review and meta-analysis was registered with PROSPERO under the registration number CRD42023410177.