Making progress in Malaria
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Date: 2015-04-21
A new kind of test for malaria is promising to make an impact in Kenya
Until now, malaria has been diagnosed through lab tests where parasites are searched for in a persons blood under the microscope. Access to health centres with lab facilities can be limited in rural areas, so many people who suspect they have malaria either struggle with the illness without diagnosis, or attempt to self-treat. This easily leads to further sickness and the misuse of antibiotics. The new Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) can give results in 15-20 minutes, without requiring a lab or specialist. It is however unable to identify which strain of malaria is present, and there is more work to be done. But advances like this promise to make real changes to community health in places like Siaya where Positive Aid supports projects.