Diagnostics·Diagnostics
Malaria blood smear
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A malaria blood smear is a test where a sample of your blood is examined under a microscope to check for the parasite that causes malaria. It is the standard way to diagnose malaria.
Key facts
- A small amount of blood is taken from your arm or finger.
- The blood is spread on a glass slide, stained, and looked at under a microscope.
- The test can tell if you have malaria and which type of parasite it is.
Malaria blood smears are common in areas where malaria is present, and they are done whenever someone has symptoms that could be malaria.
The test is for anyone who has symptoms of malaria, especially people who have recently traveled to a region where malaria is common.