Cooperating countries: Uganda, Ethiopia, Austria

Coordinating institution: Medical University of Vienna

Project coordinator: Astrid Erber

Partner institutions: Mbale Clinical Research Institute (MCRI), Bushulo Mother Newborn and Child Specialty Center (BMNCSC)

Project duration: 

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated 246 million malaria cases and 569,000 related deaths worldwide in 2023, with around 90% occurring in Africa. Children aged 6 months to under 5 years and pregnant women are most at risk. The associated morbidity and mortality perpetuate the cycle of poverty for individuals, societies and, on a larger level, countries’ economies.
This proposal unites partners from the Medical University of Vienna (Austria), the Mbale Clinical Research Institute (Uganda), and the Bushulo Mother and Child Specialty Center (Ethiopia) to address malaria diagnosis and treatment in Uganda and Ethiopia. The study aims to bring together researchers from the three sites to focus on two key areas:
Diagnostic Accuracy: An assessment of the prevalence and geographical distribution of histidine-rich protein (hrp) mutations in Plasmodium falciparum, which cause false positives in the most widely used hrp-based Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs). The study will combine results from different diagnostic methods with demographic and clinical data and location. One sub-component will also evaluate LAMP, a molecular test, as a potential alternative to RDTs at the point-of-care.
Drug Resistance: A small feasibility study to explore the prevalence and geographical distribution of molecular markers linked to resistance to antimalarial treatments—particularly mutations in the Pfkelch13 gene—using sequencing data (MIPs, Illumina MiSeq) and location.
The project will be complemented by a community engagement component and a health economics assessment. Expected outcomes include improved malaria diagnostic strategies and preliminary data for future research proposals. Additionally, the project incorporates high-quality hybrid training, opportunities for networking, and exchange between partner sites. Building on preliminary data, our consortium, consisting of experienced researchers will ensure a successful study conduct and dissemination of results, and commit to follow-up activities such as joint grant proposals.