Rapid Malaria Test in Windhoek

About this service

A rapid malaria test is a finger-prick blood test done in our rooms at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek that can detect the parasite responsible for malaria infection within a short time. If you have recently travelled to a malaria area, or are experiencing fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms without another clear cause, this test can give your doctor a quick answer to guide urgent treatment decisions.

A small blood sample is used, and the result is read using a monoclonal immunological method. Because malaria can progress quickly, getting tested promptly when symptoms arise is important, and Eastgate Clinic can arrange this test during a same-day consultation.

What to expect

• Tell reception you have fever after travel so you can be seen promptly
• A finger-prick drop of blood is placed on a rapid malaria test cassette
• The cassette is read within about 15 minutes while your doctor checks you over
• Treatment can start at the same visit if the test is positive
• A negative test with ongoing fever may be repeated or sent for a laboratory blood film

Who is it for?

You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:

• Fever after travel to a malaria area
• Chills, sweats, or flu-like symptoms
• Recent exposure risk in a malaria region
• Unexplained recurring fever
• A doctor's recommendation to rule out malaria

Frequently asked questions