Beasley EA, Mahachi KG, Petersen CA. Possibility of
Leishmania Transmission via
Lutzomyia spp. Sand Flies Within the USA and Implications for Human and Canine Autochthonous Infection.
CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2022;
9:160-168. [PMID:
36159745 PMCID:
PMC9490703 DOI:
10.1007/s40475-022-00267-4]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Leishmaniasis 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 Findings
Climate 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.
Summary
Both 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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