Plasmodium malariae is one of the five Plasmodium species that cause malaria in humans, characterized by a longer incubation period and milder symptoms compared to other species. It is responsible for quartan malaria, with fever episodes occurring every 72 hours, and can persist in the blood for extended periods, potentially leading to chronic infection if untreated.

Plasmodium Malariae

Plasmodium species are parasitic protozoans responsible for malaria in humans and are primarily transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Understanding the life cycle, genetic diversity, and drug resistance of these species is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Plasmodium Species

Malaria in humans

Longer incubation period

Milder symptoms

Quartan malaria is a type of malaria that makes people feel sick every four days because of a tiny bug called a parasite living in their blood. This happens because the parasite, called Plasmodium malariae, hides in the body and comes out to make people feel bad when it grows up every few days.

Quartan Malaria

Fever episodes

72 hours

Chronic infection refers to a prolonged and persistent infection where the pathogen is not cleared by the immune system, leading to ongoing symptoms or damage. It often requires long-term management and can result from bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens that evade the immune response or adapt to the host environment.

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