Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
Malaria can be deadly; a fever within a year of travel to a malaria area needs same-day testing. A negative test may be repeated.
Why it's done
- Fever during or after travel to Africa, Asia, Central or South America, or other malaria areas
Getting ready and what happens
- Tell the clinic where and when you traveled.
How the test is done
- A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.
- Thick and thin smears and a rapid test.
What the results mean
Positive
Treatment depends on the malaria type; severe cases need the hospital.
When a result needs quick action
Call 911Fever after travel with confusion, trouble breathing, or very dark urine
Call your provider todayAny fever within a year of travel to a malaria area
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related medicines
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.