Haematozoon

/ˌhiːmətəˈzoʊɒn/ noun

Definition

A parasitic organism that lives in the blood of animals, causing disease.

Etymology

From Greek 'haima' (blood) + 'zoon' (animal). The term emerged in the 19th century when scientists discovered microscopic creatures living in blood samples. It combines the prefix for blood with the root meaning 'living being.'

Kelly Says

Malaria parasites are haematozoa that literally hijack your red blood cells—they're like tiny invaders that hide inside your own cells to avoid your immune system's defenses.

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