Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The organism that is primarily responsible for malaria transmission is indeed Plasmodium falciparum. This species is known to cause the most severe form of malaria, contributing to a significant percentage of malaria-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Plasmodium falciparum is particularly adept at evading the host's immune response, leading to complications such as cerebral malaria, which can result in death if not treated promptly.

While other species, like Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium ovale, also cause malaria, they contribute differently to disease burden. Plasmodium vivax, for example, is known for its ability to cause relapses due to dormant liver stages but is typically less severe in terms of acute disease compared to P. falciparum. Plasmodium malariae is associated with chronic infections but is less common overall. Plasmodium ovale is also relatively rare and causes a milder form of malaria.

Therefore, the position of Plasmodium falciparum as the primary organism responsible for malaria transmission is underscored by its prevalence and fatal potential, highlighting its significance in the context of global health challenges related to malaria.