Youprotozoa they are living organisms, eukaryotic and unicellular. Together with algae, they form the Protista Kingdom. These beings are important, as many cause illness to man. By getting to know these organisms, we can better understand the treatment and prevention of these diseases.
Among the diseases caused by protozoa, we can mention themalaria, amoebiasis, Chagas disease, giardiasis and visceral leishmaniasis.
THEmalaria is caused by the protozoan called Plasmodium. In Brazil, three species are related to this disease in humans: o P. vivax, P. falciparum and P. malariae. This disease affects many people around the world each year, especially in tropical regions like ours. According to the World Health Organization, estimates are that 40% of the world's population is exposed to malaria and that more than 1 million die every year.
Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes Anopheles
THEmalaria is transmitted thanks to the bite of a mosquito of the genus Anopheles, but only the female transmits the disease. This mosquito is popularly known by the name of capuchin mosquito and carapanã. These mosquitoes have a nocturnal habit, which is why preventive measures at bedtime are important, such as the use of mosquito nets and screens on the windows. In addition, it is also necessary to use repellents, as well as the elimination of mosquito breeding sites.
The disease is characterized by high fever (39 to 40 ºC), chills, headache, profuse sweating and vomiting. Its diagnosis is made through blood tests in which the presence of the parasite is verified.
THEamoebiasis is caused by the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica. Infection occurs due to ingestion of this protozoan together with water or food contaminated by feces. This infection can be asymptomatic or present with severe bloody diarrhea. To avoid this disease, it is important to maintain personal hygiene, wash food well, drink filtered or boiled water and, above all, treat the sick individual and invest in basic sanitation.
Amebiasis is transmitted by the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica
THEgiardiasis is transmitted by the protozoan called Giardia intestinalis (also known as Giardia lamblia). Like amoebiasis, this disease is contracted from ingesting contaminated water and food. Giardiasis causes abdominal pain and diarrhea that can lead to dehydration and weight loss. To prevent transmission, investment in basic sanitation, treatment of the sick and good hygiene habits are important.
THEChagas diseaseis a well-known disease caused by a protozoan called trypanosoma cruzi. Its transmission occurs mainly through triatomids, also called barbers, but it can also occur through blood transfusion, during pregnancy, organ transplants, etc. The disease can be asymptomatic in the first years, appearing many years after the infection, and the most affected organ is the heart. To prevent the disease, it is important to control the reproduction of the barber and protect the house with doors, screens and windows. Barbers are usually found in gaps in mud houses, so investing in housing is also a prophylactic measure.
THEvisceral leishmaniasisis a disease transmitted by the protozoan called Leishmania Chagasi. The main form of transmission is the bite of an insect known as a sand fly. Clinical diagnosis is complicated as the symptoms resemble those of other diseases. The main characteristics are fever for a long period, enlargement of the spleen, enlargement of the liver, anemia, cough, diarrhea, among others. For prevention, it is necessary to fight the insect and treat the sick.
