Mosquitoes spread:

## The reasoning Mosquitoes are **vectors** — organisms that transmit diseases from one host to another. Specifically, the *Anopheles* mosquito carries the *Plasmodium* parasite, which causes **malaria**. When an infected mosquito bites you, it injects the parasite into your bloodstream. This is why malaria is common in tropical regions like Nigeria, where mosquitoes breed easily in warm, wet conditions. The key principle: **Disease transmission requires a specific vector-pathogen relationship**. Not all diseases spread through mosquitoes — only those whose pathogens can survive and be carried by them. ## Why the wrong options tempt you **Cold** — You might think "mosquitoes bite when it's warm, so maybe they spread colds?" But colds are caused by viruses spread through **air droplets** (coughing, sneezing), not insect bites. **Polio** — Spreads through **contaminated water/food** (fecal-oral route), not mosquitoes. **TB (Tuberculosis)** — Spreads through **airborne droplets** when infected people cough, not through insect vectors. ## Quick takeaway **Mosquitoes = Malaria.** Remember: the *Anopheles* mosquito is Nigeria's main malaria vector — always sleep under treated nets and clear stagnant water around your home!