Impact of Malakit on KAP related to malaria
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This article describes the evolution of the perceptions, knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to malaria among clandestine gold miners between 2015 and 2019, and…
Malakit become Curema!
Curema is a pilot research study which aims to assess a new malaria elimination strategy targeting gold miners working illegally in French Guiana due to the high malaria burden among this population.
This project combine the free distribution of malaria self-diagnosis and self-treatment kits (‘malakits’) in smart packaging with a radical cure of P. vivax hypnozoites for potential carriers after testing for contraindications.
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The kit
The kit is a lightweight, waterproof, easy to transport, transparent plastic pouch.
This smart packaging is split into two pockets: one contains three malaria rapid diagnostic tests, the other a full course of the antimalarial artemether 20 mg/lumefantrine 120 mg combination (Coartem®), a 15-mg single dose of primaquine, and paracetamol. Illustrated instructions in Portuguese are printed directly on the plastic packaging.
The phone app
A phone app was developed specifically for the project. It features illustrated information on malaria in general and on the Malakit project, such as where to get a kit for example, as well as videos that remind users how to perform a rapid diagnostic test. It also includes a step-by-step guide to help participants use the Malakit, including precautions for use. After starting treatment, participants receive notifications to remind them to take each dose of antimalarial medication.
