Malaria is what type of hazard?

Malaria is classified as an etiological hazard because it is caused by pathogens, specifically protozoan parasites from the Plasmodium species, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Etiological hazards refer to biological agents that can cause disease or harm to living organisms, thus highlighting the infectious nature of malaria.

In contrast, chemical hazards involve exposure to harmful chemicals, thermal hazards relate to extreme temperatures, and radiological hazards pertain to exposure to ionizing radiation. Malaria's mechanism of transmission and the impact it has on human health underscore its designation as an etiological hazard. Understanding this classification is crucial for implementing appropriate public health strategies and prevention measures.