Infecting Mosquitos With Parasites Reduces Transmisison of Malaria

by Mike Smith · 2009-10-04 13:21:00 UTC
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The spread of infectious diseases can be controlled by infecting mosquitoes with a parasite, potentially saving millions of human lives every year. Infecting mosquitos with the parasite Wolbachia ramps up a mosquito's immune system, which in turns dramatically lowers transmission of disease. Infected mosquitoes also live shorter lives.

Net result: Fewer, healthier mosquitoes, with the parasite passed from generation to generation. A scientist behind the study suggests, "given adequate funding and local cooperation, Wolbachia could spread though a local mosquito population in a year." But the debates continues on whether climate change will hasten the spread of Malaria.

Photo credit: unforth

Mike Smith
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