How can flagellates be described?

Flagellates thin thread-like protozoa that extend from the surface of a cell. They move in a ‘whip-like’ motion that results in waves which enable them to move. Flagellates can be solitary, free-living, parasitic or colonial and live in the intestines and bloodstream of the host. Flagellate protozoa are both a plant and animal.

Protozoal diseases are dangerous to certain hosts if not treated effectively. Some protozoal disease examples include amoebiasis which is transmitted through oral feces by flies and cockroaches. Symptoms of amoebiasis include passing blood via the rectum and colon inflammation. Toxoplasmosis is another protozoal disease which one of the most common parasites to be diagnosed. This parasite is passed from sheep and cats and is dangerous to immune systems that are compromised (pregnant woman are at most risk as this can lead to miscarriage or severe complications if passed on to the unborn child). Malaria and Zika virus are also a common protozoal virus that is spread through mosquito bites. Malaria can be dangerous if it is not treated promptly and zika virus is especially dangerous to pregnant women. Symptoms include muscle pain, chills, fever, vomiting, and headaches

Currently there no vaccines to inoculate against protozoa however medicines such as Diloxanide and Fasigyn. Before administering medication, various tests will be carried out to identify the protozoa and select the appropriate antiprotozoal. In severe cases surgery may be done to remove large growths and repair damages protozoa may cause to the human host.