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Malaria Tests Test

Malaria tests look for signs of a malaria infection in a sample of your blood. They help diagnose malaria early so it can be treated before it becomes serious.

What this test measures

Malaria tests look for signs of a malaria infection in a sample of your blood. They can tell which type of malaria parasite you have, which is important for choosing the right treatment.

What your results mean

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.

Higher-than-normal results

If the results of your malaria test are positive, it means you have malaria.

Lower-than-normal results

If the results of your malaria test are negative, it means that no signs of malaria parasites were found in your blood sample. But this doesn't rule out malaria, and more tests may be needed.

Frequently asked questions

What is malaria?

Malaria is a serious disease caused by a parasite that lives and reproduces in red blood cells, destroying them and making you sick.

How do people get malaria?

In most cases, people get malaria when bitten by infected mosquitoes. Rarely, it can spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or sharing needles.

What do malaria tests look for?

Malaria tests look for signs of a malaria infection in a sample of your blood and can identify the type of parasite.

What does a negative test result mean?

A negative test means no malaria parasites were found, but it doesn't rule out malaria. Repeat tests every 12-24 hours for a total of 3 sets are usually done.

What does a positive test result mean?

A positive test means you have malaria. Your provider will prescribe medicine right away based on the parasite type, your symptoms, and other factors.

Related lab tests

Sources

Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.