Compared to SAC without asymptomatic malaria, SAC with asymptomatic malaria had increased odds of being anaemic (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 4.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.18–7.61), P < 0.0001 and increased odds of developing functional iron deficit—high of sTfR levels (aOR: 3.46, 95% CI 2.39–5.01), P < 0.0001. This evidence concerns the gene TFRC and malaria.