Ross Malaria Index

The Ross Index, also known as the Ross Malaria Index, is one of the main tools for assessing the risk of malaria in different regions of the world. This index was developed in 1934 by Soviet entomologist Andrei Ross and has since been successfully used in medicine and scientific research.

Malaria is a disease caused by parasites transmitted by mosquito bites. Scientists have discovered that certain species of mosquitoes living in certain regions of the world carry malaria parasites. Therefore, knowing where and what types of mosquitoes predominate in certain regions, it is possible to assess the risks of malaria infection and develop appropriate preventive measures.

The Ross malaria index is determined based on three main factors: the species composition of mosquitoes in the region, their number and the frequency of bites. When calculating the index, data obtained over several years is taken into account to account for possible fluctuations in the mosquito population.

The Ross Malaria Index can be useful for assessing the risk of malaria infection in a particular region, as well as for assessing the effectiveness of malaria control measures. However, it should be noted that the index cannot be used as the sole criterion for assessing the risk of malaria infection, and its results should always be confirmed by other data and studies.

In Russia, malaria was virtually eradicated by the early 1960s, thanks to a widespread campaign of mosquito control and medical prevention. However, in some regions of Russia, including the Caucasus and Crimea, there is still a certain risk of contracting malaria. Therefore, the Ross malaria index is