Resources

In low-transmission settings, submicroscopic quantities of Plasmodium falciparum are undetectable by current rapid diagnostic tests and ELISAs. Detection of this reservoir is essential, and we need a highly sensitive laboratory reference assay to confirm these infections. This study aimed to characterize the analytical and diagnostic performance of Alere’s high-sensitivity test.

Currently, the only drugs that radically cure Plasmodium vivax malaria are 8-aminoquinoline–based drugs, which can cause hemolysis in G6PD-deficient patients. Therefore, determination of G6PD level is critical before treatment. This study evaluated tests for G6PD deficiency, including validating the correlation of quantitative reference assays, and establishing recombinant G6PD controls.

Malaria case management offered by Ghana’s Community Health Officers (CHOs) faces multiple challenges, including inadequate knowledge and skills due to minimal monitoring or refresher training. For this study, MalariaCare piloted an internship program for CHOs to test whether it improves the quality of care for malaria and other febrile illnesses.

Parasite detection is required to diagnose malaria, parasite counting is required to monitor treatment for severe cases, and species identification is required to correctly treat malaria. MalariaCare helps countries improve the accuracy of malaria diagnostic testing. This study examines MalariaCare’s malaria diagnostic refresher trainings for laboratory staff in francophone Africa.

MalariaCare has worked with National Malaria Control Programs in 17 countries to train a cadre of clinical experts as on-site supervisors. These supervisors work with local staff at the health facility level to perform on-site outreach training and supportive supervision—a mentorship program to improve clinical case management skills.