Malaria remains one of the world's most challenging infectious diseases because of the extraordinary adaptability of the Plasmodium parasite. Despite advances in drugs, diagnostics and vaccines, the parasite continues to evolve resistance and evade detection. Scientists are developing new treatments and tools as Africa continues to bear the greatest burden.
Malaria is caused by a very complex organism (parasite) which was found in mosquitoes trapped in resin from 30 million years ago. The parasite that causes malaria has therefore been around for many years before our own species. Here, I will explore why the parasites that cause malaria are so difficult to beat.
The disease we know as Malaria was thought to be caused by breathing “bad air” (mal aria) that emanates from swamps. This was not “fake news” but a lack of understanding and evidence at the time. As you probably know, swamps and stagnant water are excellent breeding sites for mosquitoes that transmit the Plasmodium parasites that cause the disease.
To nourish her developing offspring, the female mosquito needs to feed on blood as an essential rich source of protein and you and I are the local restaurant. Should she have Plasmodium parasites (sporozoites) in her salivary glands, these are injected into the person she is biting along with her saliva and proteins to stop the blood clotting when she sucks up her meal.
