Using the topic you selected for your epidemiological research paper in Written Assignment 1, detail each of the epidemiological triad pieces (host, vector, environment and agent) in both a diagram and a short written narrative. Your paper should be 2 to 3 pages in length (500 to 825 words), double-spaced.
Introduction:
Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of disease in a population. The epidemiological triad is a model that helps to understand the interactions between the host, vector, environment and agent in the transmission of a disease. In this paper, I will use the topic of Malaria as an example to detail each of the epidemiological triad pieces in both a diagram and a short written narrative.
Host:
The host in the epidemiological triad of Malaria is the human being. Malaria is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The host is the primary target of the disease, and the susceptibility of the host to the disease depends on various factors such as age, genetics, and immunity.
Vector:
The vector in the epidemiological triad of Malaria is the mosquito. The mosquito acts as a carrier of the parasite, transmitting it from one host to another. The most common vector of Malaria is the Anopheles mosquito, which is known to transmit the Plasmodium parasite to humans.
Environment:
The environment in the epidemiological triad of Malaria refers to the physical and ecological conditions that contribute to the transmission of the disease. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall can affect the breeding and survival of mosquitoes, leading to an increase in the transmission of Malaria. Additionally, certain regions with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water can also contribute to the spread of the disease.
Agent:
The agent in the epidemiological triad of Malaria is the Plasmodium parasite. There are several species of Plasmodium that can cause Malaria, but the most common are Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium malariae. Each species has a different life cycle and level of severity, but all cause symptoms such as fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms.
Diagram:
[Insert diagram of epidemiological triad for Malaria, showing the interactions between the host, vector, environment, and agent]
Conclusion:
The epidemiological triad is a useful model for understanding the interactions between the host, vector, environment, and agent in the transmission of a disease. In the case of Malaria, the host is the human being, the vector is the mosquito, the environment includes factors such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall, and the agent is the Plasmodium parasite. By understanding these interactions, we can develop effective strategies for preventing and controlling the spread of the disease.
