The cost-efficiency of sampling malaria risk and markers of infection prevalence

Defining the risks of P. falciparum infection can be measured using a variety of techniques in different populations but their cost and sensitivity depend on the overall levels of risk and the sampling strategies adopted. Central to continued mapping work is the need to define optimal spatial sampling procedures, their costs and the skill with which one needs to define infection risks. Statistical modelling of optimal spatial sampling methods will be explored against empirical sampling frames and costs of assembling data at clinics, schools and communities. In addition various combinations of Rapid Diagnostic Tests, expert microscopy, IgG AMA-1 and MSP-1 specific serology in various age-specific target groups sampled in their households, among infants presenting for routine EPI vaccination and school children across a range of anticipated transmission intensities in Kenya will be explored. This work aims to inform the optimization of approaches to routine programmatic surveillance of malaria infection risk at national scales.