Question Details

“Glossina palpalis” is a vector for

Options

A

Filariasis

B

Plague

C

Dengue

D

Gambian fever

Correct Answer :

Gambian fever

Solution :

The correct option is Gambian fever.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Understanding the Vector:
Glossina palpalis is the scientific name for a species of tsetse fly. Tsetse flies are large, biting flies found primarily in continental Africa. They function as biological vectors, meaning they transmit pathogens (specifically, microscopic parasites called trypanosomes) from one host to another during blood meals.

2. Identifying the Disease:
The parasite transmitted by Glossina palpalis is Trypanosoma brucei gambiense. This parasite is responsible for causing West African trypanosomiasis, which is commonly known as Gambian fever or African sleeping sickness.

3. Analyzing the Other Options:
- Filariasis: Transmitted by mosquitoes (such as Culex, Anopheles, and Aedes species).
- Plague: Transmitted by the rat flea (Xenopsylla cheopis).
- Dengue: Transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Therefore, Glossina palpalis is specifically the vector for Gambian fever.

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