Malaria RDT Test (P. Falciparum) – Labtestzote Nairobi & Kenya
The Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) for Plasmodium falciparum detects specific proteins produced by malaria parasites in the blood. This test is quick, using a small drop of blood—usually from a finger-prick—to identify the presence of P. falciparum, the most dangerous malaria species. It works by capturing parasite antigens (mostly HRP2, unique to P. falciparum) on a test strip, resulting in a visible line if the parasite is present in the sample.who+1
Indications of the Test – Main reasons or symptoms for ordering the test
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Fever, chills, and sweating
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Headache, muscle aches, or malaise
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History of travel to or residence in a malaria-endemic area (such as Nairobi or other regions of Kenya)
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Unexplained flu-like illness, especially in children, pregnant women, or travelers
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Fast diagnosis when malaria is clinically suspected, especially where microscope testing is unavailable
Patient Preparation/Instructions – Any preparations needed before the test
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No fasting, food, or special preparation required
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Inform the laboratory if you are on any antimalarial medication or have recently recovered from malaria (as antigens may persist after treatment)
Typical Reference Values – Normal result ranges (note they may vary)
Result | Meaning |
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Negative | No malaria parasite detected |
Positive | Malaria parasite (P. falciparum) detected |

Note: Sometimes false positives/negatives occur due to recent treatment (antigens can persist for weeks after recovery), low parasite density, or rare parasite types.pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih
Time it takes to get Report – How long results usually take
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Results are typically ready within 15-30 minutes after blood collection.pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih+1
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You will receive your results the same day when tested at Labtestzote.
How to order the test – Step-by-step guide for ordering online via Labtestzote
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Visit the Labtestzote website (serving Nairobi and Kenya).
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Search “Malaria Rapid Test” or use the Infections category.
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Click on ‘Order Test’ and fill in your details.
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Select a preferred lab location in Nairobi.
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Make payment online.
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Visit the chosen Labtestzote Nairobi location for your blood sample.
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Receive your secure online report within the same day—results delivered to your email or via your Labtestzote account.
Useful Links
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External: MedlinePlus Malaria Overview (general information about malaria)
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Internal: Laboratory Tests | How Online Tests Work
Labtestzote proudly serves Nairobi and all regions of Kenya, offering reliable malaria testing whenever you need quick, accurate answers.