Describe the causative agent for malaria, emphasize its life cycle in different hosts and discuss the preventive measures for the disease.
In short
Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, chiefly falciparum and vivax, whose sporozoites, injected by female Anopheles mosquitoes, multiply in the human liver and red blood cells, while gametocytes develop in the mosquito. Prevention relies on treated bed nets, indoor spraying, removing breeding sites, early diagnosis and vaccines.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 244 words
Malaria, caused by Plasmodium parasites, is a persistent public health challenge in tropical regions like Andhra Pradesh. India has reduced malaria cases by 69% and deaths by 68% between 2017 and 2023, aiming for elimination by 2030.
Parasite Biology and Control Framework
1. Causative Agent and Life Cycle: Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax require humans and female Anopheles mosquitoes to complete their life cycle, involving sporozoites entering the liver, merozoites infecting red blood cells, and gametocytes continuing the cycle in mosquitoes.
2. National Strategic Initiatives: The Intensified Malaria Elimination Project (IMEP)-31 and Test, Treat, Track strategy underpin India’s National Strategic Plan (2023-27), enhancing surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment, including in Andhra Pradesh.
Environmental and Drug Resistance Issues
Stagnant water in coastal and canal areas of Andhra Pradesh complicates vector control; drug-resistant Plasmodium strains require updated treatment protocols.
Community Engagement and Progress
Socioeconomic factors limit preventive uptake; however, India exited the WHO High Burden to High Impact group in 2024, with 122 districts reporting zero cases, including targeted efforts in Andhra Pradesh.
Vector Control and Vaccination
Use of insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, and WHO-approved vaccines like RTS,S/AS01 are key preventive tools.
Surveillance and Awareness
The Test, Treat, Track strategy and tailored education campaigns promote early diagnosis and behavioural change in vulnerable populations.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2011 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.