Plasmodium vivax
Quick Summary
Plasmodium vivax is one of five species of protozoan parasites that cause malaria in humans. It is the most widespread cause of malaria globally. This parasite is transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.12
The parasite infects red blood cells, leading to symptoms like chills, fever, headache, and muscle aches, which typically occur in cycles every 48 hours. While P. vivax infections can cause relapses due to dormant stages in the liver, they are generally less deadly than those caused by Plasmodium falciparum. Treatment historically involved quinine, with newer drugs like chloroquine and artemisinin also used, though drug resistance is a growing concern.123
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