Introduction
The first time I travelled to a tropical region I remember my doctor telling me I needed to take prophylactic drugs to protect me from the risk of contracting malaria. Following some clarification as to what prophylactics meant, I was prescribed a once a week medication to help prevent my contracting malaria
Looking to my own naiveté with regards to the real health scourge of malaria, I want my students to be aware of one of the largest health issues that faces humanity. They need to understand that malaria, in the age of climate change, is an evolving threat with serious implications for the entire globe (including the United States).
After completing this unit my students will understand how the transmission of malaria occurs and how it affects human health around the globe. My objectives will include students mastering the following concepts: 1) Cells are the foundation of life; 2) Observation and identification of different types of cells, including single-celled organisms; 3) Understanding and identifying Plasmodium in the zoonotic transmission of disease; 4) Recognizing climate change as a catalytic factor in the dynamics of zoonotic interactions; 5) Examining the future global implications of climate change on the transmission of malaria; 6) Creating an action plan to help increase awareness and reduce the incidence of malaria in lesser-developed countries.
Further, new technologies, specifically the potential for genetic modification of the mosquito and or Plasmodium genetics, bring about huge ethical questions. My students need to be aware of, and able to discuss and debate, this brave new world.
Ultimately it is my hope that students will appreciate the advantages they have living in a developed country and further will recognize the role they can and need to play in helping those less fortunate.
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