How Do Mosquitoes Get Malaria?
WouterHundreds of thousands of people are killed each year by malaria, a disease transmitted by mosquitoes. Most of these deaths occur in children, particularly those under five years of age. However, malaria can affect people of all ages. The disease can also be passed on to infants during childbirth.
There are about 3500 species of mosquitoes in the world. These insects are responsible for a wide variety of diseases. These mosquitoes are found in tropical regions of the world. Some of the most common types of mosquitoes are the Anopheles mosquito, which is known for its ability to transmit malaria.
The parasite that causes malaria, Plasmodium, enters the bloodstream of the infected person. This parasite then travels to the liver, where it multiplies. The parasite is then passed on to other mosquitoes. These infected mosquitoes then spread the disease to other people. This process occurs in cycles that last for 48 to 72 hours.
After entering the liver, the parasites migrate into the mosquito’s salivary glands. These glands then produce sporozoites, which are injected into the host’s bloodstream. The sporozoites develop into merozoites, which multiply and infect red blood cells. Once the merozoites break free, they cause fever.
Infected female mosquitoes are more likely to feed on humans, and are more persistent in their attempts to feed. This has long been thought to increase the risk of infection. A new study, published in the journal PLoS Pathogens, has shown that this is true.
