New diagnostic test not as effective as molecular finger-prick tests to diagnose asymptomatic malaria. (Photo: Lincoln Timinao)
Together with international partners, Swiss TPH conducted a study to assess multiple diagnostic tests intended to support malaria elimination. Results published yesterday in The Lancet Infectious Diseases found that rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) including a novel ultra-sensitive RDT, cannot replace molecular diagnostic tests to identify potential malaria transmitters. Malaria often causes symptoms such as fever, chills, and flu-like illness and when left untreated can lead to death. However, in areas where malaria is common, some people are infected and can transmit the malaria parasite without showing any symptoms. To ultimately eliminate malaria, it is important that all asymptomatic malaria carriers are detected and treated to stop the transmission of the disease. Study conducted in Papua New Guinea Scientists at Swiss TPH, together with international partners, assessed the minimum essential sensitivity of diagnostic tests necessary for detection of asymptomatic malaria carriers in Papua New Guinea. To estimate how likely it is that a malaria carrier is able to transmit the parasite to the mosquito, scientists measured the gametocytes in the blood.
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