Last Updated: 14/05/2024
Integrated system for pfhrp2/3 molecular surveillance capabilities in Uganda
Objectives
The objective of this study is to better track the spread of malaria in Uganda by integrating a molecular surveillance system into their national control program that can identify a currently under-detected variant of the causative parasite Plasmodium falciparum.
Most rapid diagnostic tests for malaria detect a specific parasite protein, however a new variant has emerged that has a deletion of the corresponding pfhrp2/3 gene, leading to a false negative test result. As these infections fail to be diagnosed, people aren’t being properly treated, and the disease continues to spread. They will upgrade the testing capabilities at the malaria reference laboratory to detect this deletion variant, and select 10 facilities spread across the country from which they will periodically sample 37 malaria patients to track the spread. They will also incorporate information systems for data capture and visualization dashboards to inform program managers and guide their decision-making.
Diagnostics
Enabling Technologies & Assays
Genetics and Genomics
Mar 2021 — Sep 2022
$100,000
