Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
23 May 2013 09:26
Infected mosquitoes are more attracted to human smells than uninfected ones
Mosquitoes infected with malaria are more attracted to human odours than uninfected ones, according to a study. Scientists claim the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, alters the host mosquito's olfactory system, leading to a heightened attraction to human odours.
This heightened attraction causes mosquitoes to fly more frequently to humans to feed on their blood, thereby increasing transmission of the pathogen responsible for the tropical disease.
Only females of the genus Anopheles transmit human malaria, as they suck blood to nurture their eggs. The team of researchers, led by Renate C Smallegange, an entomologist at Wageningen University in the Netherlands, are the first to demonstrate the malaria parasite has power over mosquito behaviour.
Around 3.3 billion people around the world live in high-risk malaria areas, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, South America and Southeast Asia. Travellers to such regions should make sure they receive the necessary jabs before jetting off, while purchasing medical travel insurance is also advised for added peace of mind.
The finding were published in the journal PLOS ONE.
16 April 2019
Keen to see first-hand who gets crowned champions of Europe? Europe's biggest football match takes place in Madrid: here's your guide to everything you need to know.
[more...]
18 April 2019
Going away with your children? Beat the stress of travelling with your family with these great travel tips. Here's what you need to know if you're travelling with kids this Easter.
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.
Experience Seville's intoxicating Feria de Abril and discover Andalucía's most famous festival! Here's your ultimate guide to La Feria.
01 April 2019
Songkran is Thailand's famous New Year's festival - and the world's biggest water fight. Here's everything you need to know before you plan your trip.
Travelling to Thailand? Learn the important local traditions and cultures to ensure you act respectfully in 'The land of a thousand smiles.'
Travelling overseas with young children? Make going through the airport easy and stress-free by following these top tips for surviving the airport with kids when flying.
25 March 2019
Discover the best places to learn to scuba dive! Check out our list of top dive locations around the world that are perfect for scuba diving beginners.
Looking for some late-season skiing? Here are some of the best places for spring skiing in Europe where you can enjoy reliable snow cover.
19 March 2019
Looking for adventure? Create your perfect Scandinavian weekend with these alternative city break ideas.
Lower your blood pressure with these fresh, healthy foods you can add to your diet.