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Malaria

Definition

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.

Analogy

Imagine malaria as an evil spy (parasite) sent by its boss (the mosquito). Once inside your body (the country), it starts causing chaos. Antimalarial drugs are like your body's secret service, working hard to find and neutralize these spies.

Related terms

Parasite: An organism that lives on or in another organism (its host) and benefits by deriving nutrients at the host's expense.

Vector-borne Disease: Diseases caused by pathogens in human populations who are infected through vectors like mosquitoes, ticks, etc.

Prophylaxis: Action taken to prevent disease, especially by specified means or against a specified disease.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.