Parasitology

Definition:
Ascariasis is an intestinal infection caused by the roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides.
Symptoms:
- Abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
- Weakness, malnutrition, and in severe cases, intestinal blockage.
Prevention:
1. Proper sanitation and disposal of human feces.
2. Washing vegetables and fruits before eating.
3. Maintaining personal hygiene, like handwashing with soap.
Treatment:
- Anti-helminthic drugs such as albendazole or mebendazole are used to kill the worms.
Final Answer:

The life-cycle of Plasmodium (malaria parasite) involves two hosts:
- Human host: Asexual reproduction (schizogony) takes place in liver cells and red blood cells. This causes malaria symptoms.
- Female Anopheles mosquito: Sexual reproduction (sporogony) occurs in the mosquito, producing sporozoites that infect humans.
Diagram:
(Draw a labelled diagram showing the following stages: Sporozoite → Liver schizont → Merozoites → RBC infection (Trophozoite, Schizont, Gametocytes) → Mosquito gut (Zygote, Ookinete, Oocyst) → Sporozoites back to mosquito salivary gland). Final Answer:

Step 1: Filaria disease is caused by parasitic worms, and the main causative agents are nematodes (roundworms) of the genus \textit{Wuchereria} and \textit{Brugia}. The zoological name of the most common causative agent of Filaria disease is: Step 2: This parasitic worm is responsible for causing lymphatic filariasis (commonly known as elephantiasis). The larvae of the parasite are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, primarily \textit{Culex} species.