Malaria : Management ( uncomplicated )WHO

Uncomplicated malaria is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a patient presenting with symptoms of malaria and a positive parasitological test (microscopy or rapid diagnostic test, RDT), but without any features of severe malaria. The management of uncomplicated malaria focuses on rapid diagnosis and effective treatment to cure the infection, prevent its progression to severe disease, and reduce transmission within the community.

The primary therapeutic objectives in managing uncomplicated malaria include eliminating all parasites from the patient's body to achieve a cure and preventing the development and spread of drug resistance. This is accomplished through the use of Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs), which combine artemisinin or its derivatives with a partner drug to enhance efficacy and reduce the risk of resistance.

The WHO guidelines emphasize the importance of completing the full course of treatment, even in semi-immune individuals, to ensure the complete eradication of the parasite and to prevent the emergence of resistance. In addition, patients who cannot tolerate oral medication due to vomiting or other reasons may require initial parenteral or rectal treatment followed by a full course of ACTs once oral administration is feasible.