What is the mode of transmission of malaria?

Malaria spreads to humans through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito that carries Plasmodium parasites.

When the mosquito bites, it injects saliva with sporozoites into the blood. The parasites go to the liver, multiply, and later infect red blood cells, causing fever, chills, and anemia. There are several Plasmodium species, such as P. falciparum and P. vivax.

Other but less common routes

• Transfusion or needle sharing: Direct blood transfer from an infected person.
• Congenital: Mother to baby during pregnancy or at birth.

Prevention pointers

• Use insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor spraying.
• Remove standing water where mosquitoes breed.
• Wear covering clothes and apply repellents.
• Take chemoprophylaxis when advised in high-risk areas.

Control programs focus on breaking the mosquito cycle, early testing, and timely treatment to prevent severe disease and reduce transmission in the community.