Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests - Technical Bulletin November 2024

UNICEF (2024) C_WHO
Malaria remains a significant global health concern, with 249 million cases and 408,000 deaths reported in 2022, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. The most vulnerable populations are children under five and pregnant women. Rapid and accurate diagnosis using microscopy or malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs) is essential to ensure timely treatment, prevent severe disease and promote the rational use of antimalarial drugs. This UNICEF Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the procurement, quality assurance and selection of WHO-prequalified mRDTs, including considerations for areas with a high prevalence of pfhrp2/3 gene deletions. The bulletin also highlights UNICEF’s approach to sustainability, product verification and long-term arrangements with manufacturers, which ensure a reliable supply while supporting integrated child health management programmes. The bulletin serves as a valuable resource for countries, partners and programmes involved in the implementation of malaria case management and diagnostics.