Prevalence of Asymptomatic and/or Low-Density Malaria Infection among High-Risk Groups in Peninsular Malaysia
Naqib Rafieqin Noordin, Phone Youth Lee, Fatma Diyana Mohd Bukhari, Mun Yik Fong, Mohd Hafizi Abdul Hamid, Jenarun Jelip, Rose Nani Mudin, Yee Ling Lau
Abstract
Asymptomatic and/or low-density malaria infection has been acknowledged as an obstacle to achieving a malaria-free country. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic and/or low-density malaria infection in previously reported malarious localities using nested PCR in four states, namely, Johor, Pahang, Kelantan, and Selangor, between June 2019 and January 2020. Blood samples (n = 585) were collected and were extracted using a QIAamp blood kit. The DNA was concentrated and subjected to nested PCR. Thin and thick blood smears were examined as well. Of the 585 samples collected, 19 were positive: 10 for Plasmodium knowlesi, eight for Plasmodium vivax, and one for Plasmodium ovale. Asymptomatic and/or low-density malaria infection is a threat to malaria elimination initiatives. Eliminating countries should develop guidance policy on the importance of low-density malaria infection which includes detection and treatment policy.