is a rapid test for malaria, based on the detection of Plasmodium

falciparum Histine-rich Protein (HRP II) in whole blood, plasma or serum as means for diagnosis

of P.falciparum malaria. Plasmodium falciparum is the most lethal malaria parasite species and

one that may account for over 99% of the infections in the region. The three other species are

Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale account for the rest. Malaria is

the most important cause of ill health in eastern and central Africa. In countries in this region it

may account for as much as 40% of public health expenditure, and up to half of outpatient visits

and inpatient admissions. Malaria is fatal, particularly in children and pregnant women.