Evaluation of the combination of rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy for imported malaria surveillance in Anhui Province, China

•The combined toolbox (Wondfo RDTs plus microscopy) improved the surveillance system sensitivity for malaria in Anhui province.•The improvement was mainly attributed to the excellent ability of RDTs to detect P. falciparum infections. On the other hand, microscopy compensates for some limitations of the use of RDTs in field practice.•Using more than one diagnostic tool to strengthen the surveillance system was effective in the post-elimination stage.