Chapter 14: Parasitism and Infectious Disease Can you find examples of parasites or diseases that may change human behaviors? B) What are two examples of human endoparasites and two examples of human ectoparasites? C) Explain how bat species can at as reservoir species of parasites and or infectious disease D) How is the Reproductive rate of infection (Ro) related to mitigation efforts to stop the spread of Corona virus in 2020 and 2021?
Chapter 14: Parasitism and Infectious Disease
- Can you find examples of
parasites or diseases that may change human behaviors?
B) What are two examples of human endoparasites and two examples of human ectoparasites?
C) Explain how bat species can at as reservoir species of parasites and or infectious disease
D) How is the Reproductive rate of infection (Ro) related to mitigation efforts to stop the spread of Corona virus in 2020 and 2021?
E)Have parasites coevolved with hosts? Explain.
Ans 1. Can you find examples of parasites or diseases that may change human behaviors?
Yes, there are various parasites and diseases that have been shown to affect human behavior. Here are a few examples:
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Toxoplasmosis: This is a parasitic disease caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. It is commonly found in cat feces, and can be contracted by humans through contact with infected soil, food or water. Studies have suggested that people infected with Toxoplasma gondii may have altered personalities and be more likely to take risks. In addition, infected individuals may be more prone to psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia.
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Malaria: Malaria is a mosquito-borne parasitic disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite. One type of Plasmodium, called Plasmodium falciparum, has been shown to cause behavioral changes in infected individuals. For example, infected individuals may be more attractive to mosquitoes, making them more likely to be bitten and spread the disease.
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Rabies: Rabies is a viral disease that is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. The virus can affect the brain and cause behavioral changes, including aggression and agitation. This can result in the infected individual becoming more likely to bite or attack others, potentially spreading the virus.
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Chagas disease: Chagas disease is caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, which is transmitted by blood-sucking insects known as triatomine bugs. Studies have suggested that individuals infected with Chagas disease may experience changes in personality and behavior, including increased impulsivity and risk-taking.
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Lyme disease: Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is transmitted by ticks. In some cases, the infection can cause neurological symptoms such as cognitive impairment and changes in mood and behavior.
It's worth noting that the effects of these parasites and diseases on human behavior can vary widely, and not everyone who is infected will experience these changes. Additionally, treatment for these conditions may help to reduce or eliminate any behavioral effects.
Ans 2. Explain how bat species can at as reservoir species of parasites and or infectious disease.
Certainly, here are two examples of endoparasites and two examples of ectoparasites that can affect humans:
Human Endoparasites:
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Tapeworms: These are flatworms that can live in the human digestive tract and feed off nutrients from the host. They can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, and malnutrition. Some species of tapeworms can grow to be several meters long and release thousands of eggs, which can be passed out of the body in feces and infect other hosts.
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Roundworms: These are long, thin worms that can live in the human intestines and feed off nutrients from the host. They can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition. Some species of roundworms can also cause more serious health problems, such as anemia, pneumonia, and blindness.
Human Ectoparasites:
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Lice: These are small insects that live on the skin and hair of humans, feeding off blood from the host. They can cause itching, irritation, and inflammation of the skin. Lice can spread easily between individuals through direct contact or sharing of personal items such as combs, hats, or clothing.
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Fleas: These are small, wingless insects that feed off blood from humans and other animals. They can cause itching, irritation, and inflammation of the skin, as well as transmit diseases such as plague and typhus. Fleas are often found on pets, but can also infest human homes and cause problems for humans.
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