Guidelines for the treatment of malaria. Second edition
March 2010
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Updates as of April 2011
pdf, 497kb
WHO now recommends parenteral artesunate as first line treatment in the management of severe falciparum malaria in african children.
Overview
The World Health Organization Guidelines for the treatment of malaria provides evidence-based and up-to-date recommendations for countries on malaria diagnosis and treatment which help countries formulate their policies and strategies.
In scope, the Guidelines cover the diagnosis and treatment of uncomplicated and severe malaria caused by all types of malaria, including in special groups (young children, pregnant women, HIV /AIDS), in travellers (from non-malaria endemic regions) and in epidemics and complex emergency situations.
The first edition of the Guidelines for the treatment of malaria were published in 2006. The second edition introduces a new fifth ACT to the four already recommended for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria. Furthermore, the Guidelines recommend a parasitological confirmation of diagnosis in all patients suspected of having malaria before treating.
The move towards universal diagnostic testing of malaria is a critical step forward in the fight against malaria as it will allow for the targeted use of ACTs for those who actually have malaria. This will help to reduce the emergence and spread of drug resistance. It will also help identify patients who do not have malaria, so that alternative diagnoses can be made and appropriate treatment provided. The new Guidelines will therefore help improve the management of not only malaria, but other childhood febrile illnesses.
Guidelines for the Treatment of Malaria. Second Edition" can be purchased through our internet bookstore at : www.who.int/bookorders. Customers in developing countries will take advantage of a discounted price. Those who cannot purchase online can contact our sales agents (list available in the bookstore homepage http://www.who.int/library/services/en/) or our sales office in Geneva at email: bookorders@who.int or fax +41 22 791 4857.