Table 1 Key findings from the four APMEN Vivax Working Group literature reviews

Trends in malaria research in 11 Asian Pacific countries: an analysis of peer-reviewed publications over two decades

Between 1990 and 2009, there had been a significant decline in the proportion of malaria-related literature amongst all biomedical publications in the Asia-Pacific region [31].

Primaquine radical cure of Plasmodium vivax: a critical review of the literature

Treatment with low dose primaquine is not consistently effective in all areas. A higher dose of primaquine offers significant benefits in efficacy however these doses need to be confirmed in a range of endemic settings, and amongst high-risk patients. Multi-site trials are needed to assess higher doses of primaquine with a control arm, and careful and long-term patient follow up [32].

Review of key knowledge gaps in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency detection with regard to the safe clinical deployment of 8-aminoquinoline treatment regimens: a workshop report

Improved diagnostics for G6PD deficiency are required to facilitate the broader, safe and effective use of primaquine. Current methods are impractical in areas with limited resources, and where most malaria patients live [17].

Global extent of chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium vivax: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Enhanced monitoring and better surveillance tools are needed to assess the burden of P. vivax malaria, identify areas of infection and drug resistance, and quantify changes in drug resistance patterns. Up to date information is critical to ensure optimal treatment recommendations [16].