Plasmodium enters the human body as sporozoites (infectious form) through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquito. The parasites initially multiply within the liver cells and then attack the red blood cells (RBCs) resulting in their rupture. The rupture of RBCs is associated with release of a toxic substance, haemozoin, which is responsible for the chill and high fever recurring every three to four days. Rhino viruses infect the nose and respiratory passage but not the lungs. Malignant malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum is the most serious one and can even be fatal.

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