MALARIA

VECTORS OF MALARIA

• There are many vectors of malaria

• Anopheles culicifacies is the main vector of malaria

• It is a small to medium sized mosquito with Culex like sitting posture

1. Feeding habits

• It is a zoophilic species

• When high densities build up relatively large numbers feed on men

2. Resting habits

• Rests during daytime in human dwellings and cattlesheds

3. Breeding places

• Breeds in rainwater pools and puddles, borrowpits, river bed pools, irrigation channels, seepages, rice fields, wells, pond margins, sluggish streams with sandy margins.

• Extensive breeding is generally encountered following monsoon rains.

4. Biting time

• Biting time of each vector species is determined by its generic character, but can be readily influenced by environmental conditions.

• Most of the vectors, including Anopheles culicifacies, start biting soon after dusk. Therefore, biting starts much earlier in winter than in summer but the peak time varies from species to species.

National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, 22, Shamnath Marg, Delhi - 110054.