Leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by sand flies that can affect either the skin or internal organs.

Overview

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease spread by the bite of infected sand flies. There are several different forms of the disease:

• Cutaneous: The most common form, which causes skin sores.
• Visceral: Affects internal organs such as the spleen, liver, and bone marrow. Symptoms include fever, weight loss, and an enlarged spleen and liver.

Geographic Distribution

Leishmaniasis is found in parts of about 88 countries, mostly in the tropics and subtropics. While it is very unlikely to contract this disease in the United States, travelers should be aware of the risk when visiting the Middle East, parts of Central America, South America, Asia, Africa, or southern Europe.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment involves medicines that contain antimony (a type of metal) or strong antibiotics. The best way to prevent the disease is to protect yourself from sand fly bites:

• Stay indoors from dusk to dawn, when sand flies are the most active.
• Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outside.
• Use insect repellent and bed nets as needed.