‘Beautiful’ is an adjective seldom found in vector-borne disease, not least concerning mosquitos. Yet one photographer has recently highlighted the gorgeousness of a particular genus of the flying insects, the Sabethes. This creature is capable of carrying deadly viruses, and exhibits some unique behaviour among mosquitos, making these pretty specimens worthy of research beyond their appearance.
Parasitic worm (helminth) infections are often described as a cause of stunting in children. However, a variety of factors can contribute to childhood stunting. Our recent systematic review found a lack of data to support this causative nexus and highlights the need for more research on this topic, particularly to recognise the role of maternal health and possible in utero stunting.
A unique new review published in Parasites & Vectors provides a list of female scientists who contributed to the field of medical entomology, filling a gap in the recognition of their important role in science. The list is long, and here we provide just a few excerpts from the review article, to give you a flavour and entice you to read all the inspiring stories of these remarkable women and scientists.
That fact bed net use protects users from Malaria deaths, especially children, is no news. But what happens once children grow up and stop sleeping under a net? We know that without bed nets, children acquire a partial immunity that protects them against severe malaria. Hence, it was speculated that protecting children from exposure to the pathegon would raise mortality among them once they were older. A new study sheds light on the matter.
In honor of April Fool’s Day we highlight some of the tricks that parasites play on hosts – not only one day a year, but especially worthy of recognition today