What type of pathogen is responsible for malaria?

Malaria is caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium. These parasites are eukaryotic microorganisms, which distinguishes them from other types of pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The primary way malaria is transmitted to humans is through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, which act as vectors for the disease. Once inside the human bloodstream, the Plasmodium parasites invade red blood cells, leading to the symptoms associated with malaria, such as fever, chills, and anemia.

Protozoa, as a category, encompass a diverse group of unicellular organisms, many of which are parasitic. In the case of malaria, the involvement of a specific genus like Plasmodium highlights the role of these protozoa in public health concerns. The life cycle of these protozoan parasites is complex, involving both human hosts and mosquito vectors, which is significant for understanding the disease's transmission and potential control measures.