PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
WBPSC Miscellaneous Preliminary 2023
Answer
Sandfly
Explanation
Kala-azar, also known as Visceral Leishmaniasis, is a severe infectious disease primarily transmitted by the bite of an infected female 'Sandfly' (Phlebotomus). The disease is caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani. It affects the internal organs, particularly the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, causing prolonged fever and weight loss.
Key Points
- > Pathogen: Leishmania donovani (Protozoa).
- > Vector: Female Sandfly.
- > Symptoms: Prolonged fever, hepatosplenomegaly (enlarged liver & spleen), weight loss.
- > Upendranath Brahmachari synthesized Urea Stibamine, the cure for Kala-azar.
- > Anopheles mosquitoes carry Malaria.
- > Aedes mosquitoes carry Dengue.
- > Tsetse flies carry African Trypanosomiasis (Sleeping Sickness).
Additional Information
Diseases and Vectors
| Disease | Pathogen Type | Vector |
|---|---|---|
| Malaria | Protozoa | Anopheles Mosquito |
| Dengue | Virus | Aedes Mosquito |
| Kala-azar | Protozoa | Sandfly |
| Sleeping Sickness | Protozoa | Tsetse fly |
Memory Tips
- Associate Kala (meaning black) with dark Sand to remember that Kala-azar is spread by the Sandfly.