Contents
Key Stage 4
Meaning
Malaria is a disease caused by pathogenic protists called Plasmodia.
About Malaria
- The malaria protist lives in the blood of humans and reproduces in the liver.
- Malaria can lay dormant, not causing any symptoms, for months at a time.
- Malaria causes fevers, liver damage and damage to the red blood cells.
- Malaria is transmitted by the mosquito which is referred to as a vector for the pathogen.
- Malaria is not easily treated and most people will have malaria for their entire lives.
- People with the genetic disorder; 'Sickle Cell Anemia' have sickle shaped red blood cells which helps prevent malaria infections.
The transmission of malaria can be prevented or reduced by:
- Killing mosquitos with insecticide.
- Destroying the habitat of the mosquito. (Areas of stagnant water.)
- Taking antimalarial drugs.
- Using mosquito nets that can be placed over beds.
Beyond the Curriculum
References
AQA
- Malaria, page 127, GCSE Combined Science Trilogy; Biology, CGP, AQA
- Malaria, page 133, GCSE Biology, CGP, AQA
- Malaria, page 45, GCSE Combined Science; The Revision Guide, CGP, AQA
- Malaria, page 47, GCSE Biology; The Revision Guide, CGP, AQA
- Malaria, page 47, GCSE Biology; The Revision Guide, CGP, AQA
- Malaria, page 84, GCSE Combined Science Trilogy 1, Hodder, AQA
- Malaria, pages 84-5, GCSE Biology, Hodder, AQA
- Malaria, pages 88-89, 201, GCSE Biology; Third Edition, Oxford University Press, AQA