Plasmodium spp.: The Malaria-Causing Parasites That Hijack Your Blood
- Jul 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 30
Plasmodium species are microscopic protozoan parasites responsible for malaria, a potentially fatal disease that continues to affect millions worldwide. The five main species that infect humans are Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium knowlesi.
Cause and Transmission
Malaria is caused when infected female Anopheles mosquitoes inject Plasmodium sporozoites into the bloodstream during a bite. From there, the parasites travel to the liver, marking the beginning of a complex life cycle. Human-to-human transmission also occurs via blood transfusions, organ transplants, and shared needles.
