TYPES OF MALARIA PARASITES

TYPES OF MALARIA PARASITES 

There are four main types of malaria, caused by different Plasmodium parasites:

1. PLASMODIUM VIVAX (P. VIVAX) 

Most widespread and common

Less severe than P. falciparum

Can cause relapses

2. PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM (P. FALCIPARUM)

Most severe and life-threatening

High risk of complications (cerebral malaria, organ failure)

Transmitted in tropical regions

3. PLASMODIUM MALARIAE (P. MALARIAE)

Mild symptoms

Long incubation period (up to 1 year)

Found in tropical regions

4. PLASMODIUM OVALE (P. OVALE)

Similar to P. vivax

Less severe

Found in West Africa