Malaria

Question 1

Malaria

Answer 1

Malaria is caused by a tiny parasite called plasmodium.

Plasmodium is transferred from one person to another by the female anopheles mosquito.

Question 2

Physical and Environmental Factor

Answer 2

Suitable breeding ground for female anopheles mosquito:

• Stagnant (still) water in which the mosquito can lay eggs.
• Hot humid climates with high rainfall (tropics perfect)
• Temperature between 15 and 40 degrees Celsius
• Areas of shade in which the mosquito can digest blood

Question 3

Human Factors

Answer 3

• Creation of dams, reservoirs and irrigation channels to create stagnant water
• Poor irrigation that spreads water leaves pools lying on the surface
• Settlements create a blood reservoir
• Exposure of bare skin increases the risk of bites
• Greater mobility of people means malaria can be easily transmitted or even reintroduced
• Increasing population can result in people living closer to areas of high risk