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Possibility of Leishmania Transmission via Lutzomyia spp. Sand Flies Within the USA and Implications for Human and Canine Autochthonous Infection
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Possibility of Leishmania Transmission via Lutzomyia spp. Sand Flies Within the USA and Implications for Human and Canine Autochthonous Infection

Erin A Beasley, Kurayi G Mahachi and Christine A Petersen
Current tropical medicine reports, Vol.9, pp.160-168
09/21/2022
DOI: 10.1007/s40475-022-00267-4
PMCID: PMC9490703
PMID: 36159745
url
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-022-00267-4View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Purpose of ReviewLeishmaniasis is a leading cause of parasitic death, with incidence rising from decreased resources to administer insecticide and anti-leishmanial treatments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Leishmaniasis is nonendemic in the United States (U.S.), but enzootic canine populations and potentially competent vectors warrant monitoring of autochthonous disease as a fluctuating climate facilitates vector expansion. Recent studies concerning sand fly distribution and vector capacity were assessed for implications of autochthonous transmission within the U.S. Recent FindingsClimate change and insecticide resistance provide challenges in sand fly control. While most Leishmania-infected dogs in the U.S. were infected via vertical transmission or were imported, autochthonous vector-borne cases were reported. Autochthonous vector-borne human cases have been reported in four states. Further vaccine research could contribute to infection control. SummaryBoth cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis cases in the U.S. are increasingly reported. Prevention measures including vector control and responsible animal breeding are critical to halt this zoonotic disease.

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