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Effective management of malaria relies heavily on accurate and timely diagnosis, which in turn depends on sufficient numbers of health workers being trained in appropriate microscopy techniques. Recognition of the increasing need for such personnel prompted the publication of this comprehensive, two-part training module on basic malaria microscopy. The module is one of three, each concerned with a different aspect of the fight against malaria, and is intended for use in training courses devoted exclusively to diagnostic microscopy or as part of broader teaching programmes.

Part I - the Learner’s Guide - consists of a series of Learning Units, with clearly stated learning objectives, which take trainees through each step of the diagnostic routine in the correct sequence. Topics covered include preparation of microscope slides, blood sampling, use of the microscope, and identification of malaria parasites. The information contained in the Learning Units is designed to accompany a programme of lectures, demonstrations, group discussions, field work and - most importantly - practical laboratory work. Its completeness is intended to obviate the need for trainees to make more than the briefest notes during the course and to provide them with a valuable reference work when they return to their jobs. Detailed colour plates are included in the Guide, which will be of particular assistance in the correct identification of the species and stage of malaria parasite observed in blood samples.