Question 1: Define Malaria and explain the role of the Anopheles mosquito in its transmission.

Answer: Malaria is a disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. The mosquito acts as a vector, carrying the parasite from one person to another.

Question 2: Describe how Malaria affects the human body at the cellular level.

Answer: Malaria parasites invade red blood cells, multiply inside them, and cause the cells to burst, leading to symptoms like fever, chills, and anemia.

Question 3: In the context of space exploration, why is it important to understand vector-borne diseases like Malaria?

Answer: Understanding vector-borne diseases is crucial for protecting astronauts in space stations where the environment is controlled, but the risk of disease transmission remains if vectors are introduced or if immune systems are compromised.

Question 4: Calculate the number of red blood cells infected after 3 days if the initial infection involves 1,000 cells and the parasite population doubles every 24 hours.

Answer: 8000

Question 5: Identify three safety precautions that should be taken when researching Malaria in laboratory settings, especially in relation to space station environments.

Answer: Wearing protective clothing and gloves, working in sterile environments to prevent contamination, and proper disposal of infected materials.

Question 6: Describe how climate and environment influence the spread of Malaria on Earth, and discuss whether similar factors could affect its spread in space habitats.

Answer: On Earth, warm, humid environments with stagnant water promote mosquito breeding, increasing Malaria spread. In space habitats, controlled environments and absence of stagnant water reduce mosquito populations, but if vectors are introduced or environmental controls fail, the disease could spread, impacting crew health. Therefore, environmental management is crucial in space.

Question 7: Explain how developing vaccines against Malaria could benefit long-term space missions, especially those involving extended stays on other planets.

Answer: Vaccines could protect astronauts from Malaria infection, reducing health risks, preventing outbreaks in closed environments, and ensuring mission success during long-term space travel.

Question 8: In a scenario where a space station is accidentally contaminated with mosquito larvae, what immediate steps should be taken to prevent Malaria transmission?

Answer: Immediate steps include isolating the contaminated area, using insecticides to eliminate larvae, implementing strict hygiene protocols, monitoring crew health for symptoms, and reviewing environmental controls to prevent mosquito breeding. Long-term, the station should undergo decontamination and vector eradication procedures.

Question 9: Which of the following best describes the reason why Malaria is considered a major health concern for astronauts in space stations?

Answer: D

Question 10: Fill in the blank: The primary vector responsible for transmitting Malaria is the __________ mosquito.

Answer: Anopheles