Plasmodium: The Parasite Behind Malaria and More
- Jul 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 30
Plasmodium is a microscopic protozoan parasite responsible for malaria, one of the deadliest parasitic infections in the world. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
Once in the body, Plasmodium travels to the liver, where it matures and multiplies. From there, it enters red blood cells, continuing its cycle of reproduction and destruction. This blood stage is responsible for the symptoms associated with malaria.
There are five known species of Plasmodium that infect humans: Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, and P. knowlesi. P. falciparum is the most dangerous and can lead to severe complications and death if not treated quickly.
