Intermediate host

Intermediate host is an organism that supports the immature or nonreproductive forms of a parasite. In many cases, the intermediate host is essential for the completion of the parasite's life cycle.

Overview

An intermediate host is typically a smaller, often herbivorous organism, such as a snail, that is infected by the parasite in its larval stage. The parasite then matures and reproduces in the definitive host, typically a larger carnivorous organism, such as a human, that eats the intermediate host.

Examples

Some examples of parasites that use intermediate hosts include the malaria parasite, which uses mosquitoes as intermediate hosts, and the tapeworm, which can use pigs or cows as intermediate hosts.

Role in Disease Transmission

Intermediate hosts play a crucial role in the transmission of many diseases. For example, the malaria parasite is transmitted to humans when they are bitten by an infected mosquito. Similarly, humans can become infected with tapeworms by eating undercooked meat from an infected pig or cow.

Prevention and Control

Preventing and controlling diseases that involve intermediate hosts often involves targeting these hosts. For example, controlling mosquito populations can help reduce the transmission of malaria. Similarly, ensuring that meat is properly cooked can help prevent tapeworm infections.

See Also

• Definitive host
• Parasite
• Malaria
• Tapeworm

Intermediate host Resources
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