Mosquitoes and Malaria: A Centuries Old Saga of Friendship through Thick and Thin

Author(s): Archana Bottu, Yogesh Acharya

Malaria is an ancient disease prevalent in many parts of the world. It is transmitted through the bite of female Anopheles mosquitoes. Malarial outburst is a public health problem with significant morbidity and mortality in endemic areas. Despite its ancient origin, historical importance and global presence, we are unable to curb the spread of disease. Management of malaria requires an interdisciplinary holistic approach interlinking the life cycle of the plasmodium, mosquito and other possible host. These intricate complexities of malaria and mosquitoes will yield the vital clue to understand the role of vectors to have an insight into its biological niche and come up with an effective control plan.