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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Malaria P. Falciparum & P. Vivax Multiplex Detection Differentiation RNA Detection Qualitative Test

Accurately diagnose malaria infections caused by Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax using advanced RNA detection technology. This test helps guide appropriate treatment.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Whole blood collected in an EDTA tube or a dried blood spot sample.
Results
Results are typically available within 48 hours via email. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 13,600

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Malaria P. Falciparum & P. Vivax Multiplex Detection Differentiation RNA Detection Qualitative Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Individuals presenting with symptoms suggestive of malaria (e.g., fever, chills, headache, muscle aches).
  • ✓Patients residing in or recently traveled to malaria-endemic areas.
  • ✓Individuals with compromised immune systems.
  • ✓Confirmation of malaria diagnosis when rapid tests are inconclusive.
  • ✓Differentiation between P. falciparum and P. vivax infections.
  • ✓Monitoring treatment response in complex cases.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps healthcare providers accurately identify the specific type of malaria parasite (P. falciparum or P. vivax) causing an infection. This information is essential for selecting the correct anti-malarial medication and managing the condition effectively, potentially preventing complications and improving patient outcomes.
This test is designed to identify malaria infections caused by specific Plasmodium species, namely Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. It uses advanced Real-Time RT-PCR technology to detect the RNA of these parasites in a blood sample. Accurate identification of the specific malaria strain is crucial for effective treatment and management, especially in regions where malaria is common. This test provides a clear distinction between the two species, helping healthcare providers choose the most suitable treatment plan. It is recommended for individuals experiencing malaria symptoms or those at high risk of infection.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo specific patient preparation is required. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleWhole blood collected in an EDTA tube or a dried blood spot sample.
MethodologyReal-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR).
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects RNA, indicating an active infection. It may not detect very low levels of parasites. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other relevant tests. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

This test detects the genetic material (RNA) of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, two common types of malaria parasites.
Different malaria species can respond differently to treatments. Knowing the specific type helps your doctor prescribe the most effective medication.
A sample of your blood is needed for this test. This can be collected at one of our branches or via our home sample collection service.
Results are typically sent via email within the specified turnaround time. You may also receive a notification via phone.
Generally, no specific preparation is needed. However, please inform the laboratory staff of any relevant medical history.
A negative result may indicate that malaria is not the cause of your symptoms, or the parasite level might be too low to detect. Discuss the results with your doctor for further evaluation.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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