Malaria is spread by the bite of which mosquito

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2024

Explanation

Malaria is a protozoal disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite.
The parasite is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito.
Female mosquitoes are the vectors because they require a blood meal for the development of their eggs.
During the blood meal, the mosquito can ingest parasites from an infected person or inject parasites into a healthy person.

Option B: Male mosquitoes do not bite humans or animals. They feed on plant nectar and juices and lack the mouthparts necessary for piercing skin.
Option C: The Aedes mosquito is a vector for several viral diseases, but not malaria.
Option D: The Culex mosquito transmits different pathogens, primarily those causing Japanese Encephalitis and Filariasis.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Vector-borne disease transmission, specifically malaria as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating patients and communities about malaria prevention, including using mosquito nets, repellents, and eliminating breeding sites.
Understanding the specific vector is vital for public health strategies and advising travelers on appropriate prophylaxis for different regions.
A key nursing responsibility is the early recognition of malaria symptoms (fever, chills, headache) and ensuring prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe complications.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key concept in the question, which is the specific mosquito responsible for spreading malaria.
Recall the different types of mosquitoes and the diseases they are known to transmit.
Associate malaria specifically with the Anopheles genus.
Differentiate between the feeding habits of male and female mosquitoes. Remember that only females require blood meals for egg production, making them the vectors for disease.
Eliminate the other options: Aedes (transmits Dengue, Zika) and Culex (transmits Japanese Encephalitis, Filariasis).
Combine the facts: Malaria is spread by the Anopheles mosquito, and only the female bites. This leads to the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart B (pp 233-449 of 464) p. 87-89

E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 274-276

Practise the full RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.