Protozoa - SS3 Agriculture Lesson Note

Protozoa are single-celled organisms that can cause a range of diseases in humans and animals. Their modes of transmission are different from bacteria and viruses:

 

Waterborne: Many protozoal infections are waterborne, meaning they are transmitted through contaminated water sources. Drinking or swimming in water containing protozoa like Giardia or Cryptosporidium can lead to infection.

 

Foodborne: Some protozoa can be transmitted through contaminated food, particularly if it has been prepared or handled in unsanitary conditions. For instance, consuming undercooked or contaminated meat can lead to toxoplasmosis.

 

Vector-Borne: Unlike bacteria and viruses, some protozoal diseases are transmitted by vectors.

 

Direct Contact: Protozoa can also be transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or their bodily fluids. For example, Trichomonas vaginalis is a sexually transmitted protozoal infection.