Having the gene for sickle cell hemoglobin gives an individual enhanced immunity against which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gene for sickle cell hemoglobin provides enhanced immunity against malaria because it makes it more difficult for the malaria parasite to survive in red blood cells. People who inherit one copy of the gene have sickle cell trait and are less likely to develop severe malaria, while people with two copies of the gene have sickle cell disease and are more resistant to malaria but also have other health issues. The gene does not provide enhanced immunity against the flu, polio, or sleeping sickness.

Having the Gene for Sickle Cell Hemoglobin Gives an Individual