malaria diagnostics

Malaria diagnostics involve detecting the presence of the malaria parasite in a person's body. Common methods include blood tests, such as microscopy, where a small blood sample is examined under a microscope to identify parasites, and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), which detect specific parasite proteins using a simple finger-prick blood sample. These tests help healthcare providers determine if someone has malaria quickly and accurately, guiding appropriate treatment. Accurate diagnosis is essential because symptoms can resemble other illnesses, and proper treatment prevents complications and spreads.