A newborn in Nigeria has P. falciparum parasitaemia on cord blood film but is asymptomatic. Why are most neonates initially protected?...

Question

A newborn in Nigeria has P. falciparum parasitaemia on cord blood film but is asymptomatic. Why are most neonates initially protected?

Accepted Answer

Passively transferred maternal IgG antibodies and fetal haemoglobin (HbF) provide temporary protection

Answer

Neonatal immunity is fully developed

Answer

P. falciparum cannot replicate in neonatal blood

Answer

A different non-pathogenic species infects neonates

Answer

Neonates cannot develop fever

uk-dtmh MCQ (SBA): Neonatal Malaria Protection Mechanisms