A fever panel to detect dengue, chikungunya, and malaria
Problem
Mosquito-borne diseases are rampant in India with an observed rise in dengue and chikungunya cases between
2015 and 2021. While malaria prevalence has reduced over
the last 20 years, absolute numbers stand high. These illnesses often present similar symptoms at an early stage, which can lead to a misdiagnosis or even delayed diagnosis. Thus, there is an immediate need for a rapid diagnostic test(RDT) that is real-time, easy-to-use, affordable, user-friendly and equipment free.
Solution
Addressing these need gaps, Ameliorate developed an
accurate, multiplexed RDT for differential detection of
dengue, chikungunya and malaria (with malaria
falciparum and vivax differentiation). The single test kit
uses a single blood sample and can be easily used by
minimally trained workforce at primary level. The
process eliminates the need of serum/plasma samples,
is instantaneous, doesn’t need cold chain facility/
biosafety lab: ensures minimal medical waste
generation.
IMPACT
The funding from IHF will enable prospective, multicentric performance and cost-effectiveness evaluation of the RDT, to be made available at a discounted price of INR 200/pc to the public health system for government procurements. This is far less than existing fever panel priced at INR 3000-4000.
