From the Guidelines
If you've returned from Africa and are concerned about malaria, you should seek medical attention promptly if you develop any symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, or fatigue, even if you took antimalarial medication during your trip. Testing for malaria typically involves a blood test called a thick and thin blood smear, which can detect the parasite under a microscope 1. Other tests include rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) that detect malaria antigens in your blood, with a sensitivity ranging from 67.9 to 100% and a specificity between 93.1 and 100% for P. falciparum, and a sensitivity ranging from 66% to 91% and specificity from 98% to 100% for P. vivax 1. However, RDTs may be falsely negative in cases with very low rates of parasitemia and non-falciparum infection 1. If you're experiencing symptoms, don't wait—go to an emergency room or urgent care facility immediately, as untreated malaria can become severe quickly. Even if you feel fine now, inform your healthcare provider about your recent travel to Africa during your next visit, as some people can have asymptomatic infections. Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, and prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential because the disease can progress rapidly, especially with Plasmodium falciparum, the most dangerous species common in Africa. Some key points to consider when testing for malaria include:
- The use of thick and thin blood smears, which can detect the parasite under a microscope 1
- The use of RDTs, which can provide rapid results but may have lower sensitivity and specificity than blood smears 1
- The importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment, as untreated malaria can become severe quickly 1
- The need to inform healthcare providers about recent travel to Africa, even if symptoms are not present 1