Urban malaria is spread by
**Core Concept**
Urban malaria is a form of malaria that occurs in urban areas, primarily caused by the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. This type of malaria is often associated with a different set of clinical and epidemiological characteristics compared to rural malaria.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the primary vector responsible for urban malaria transmission. Anopheles mosquitoes are the primary vectors of malaria, and certain species such as Anopheles stephensi, Anopheles culicifacies, and Anopheles dirus are known to thrive in urban environments. These mosquitoes are attracted to artificial breeding sites such as cisterns, wells, and other containers that collect and store water. Once infected with the malaria parasite, they can transmit it to humans through their bites.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not mention the primary vector responsible for urban malaria transmission. While other vectors may be involved in certain contexts, Anopheles mosquitoes are the primary vectors of malaria.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it mentions a different type of mosquito altogether. Culex mosquitoes are vectors of other diseases such as filariasis and Japanese encephalitis, but they are not primarily responsible for urban malaria transmission.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the vector responsible for urban malaria transmission. While mosquitoes are indeed the vectors of malaria, Anopheles mosquitoes are the primary vectors in urban areas.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because it mentions a different type of disease altogether. Dengue fever is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, not Anopheles mosquitoes.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that urban malaria often presents with atypical symptoms, such as fever without the classic symptoms of malaria, and may be more challenging to diagnose than rural malaria. This is because the infected individuals may have been exposed to other diseases or have a higher level of immunity to the malaria parasite.
**Correct Answer: D. Anopheles mosquitoes.**