Scientists at the Nairobi-based International Center for Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) have discovered a new way that could be used to control malaria in Africa.
Scientist Mike Okal said that a naturally occurring chemical, cedrol, was found in mosquito breeding sites near Lake Victoria. This chemical could be used in traps to 'attract and kill' the female mosquito, preventing reproduction before she lays eggs.
Malaria
Malaria is caused by a parasite that enters blood through the bite of an infected mosquito. It is characterized by fever, vomiting, shivering, sweating and other symptoms.
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"For the past six years, we have been studying how the major malaria-transmitting mosquito in Africa selects which pool to lay her eggs in, and asking how that choice could be manipulated so we can intercept and kill her before she lays hundreds of eggs," said Okal.
The researcher said while much research has been done into repellents and attractants of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes, this is the first chemical confirmed to attract female mosquitoes while they search for a place to lay their eggs.
"The research offers a new way to control mosquitoes and will also boost malaria-control efforts in tropical Africa," Okal noted.
Source: Medindia
"The research offers a new way to control mosquitoes and will also boost malaria-control efforts in tropical Africa," Okal noted.
Source: Medindia
Malaria - Waterborne
Encyclopedia section of medindia gives general information about About Malaria Causes
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 Mosquito DiseasesMosquito-borne diseases, like malaria, filaria, dengue, etc are common in places conducive of mosquito breeding. Swamps, ponds and stagnated drainage provide optimal breeding ground for mosquitoes. | Advertisement
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Fever
Fever or Pyrexia is an elevation in normal body temperature. Causes of fever include infections, injury, cancers, inflammation, hormonal, metabolic and genetic diseases.
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