Summary
Leishmaniasis is caused by the bite of an infected sandfly. The disease has an incubation period of 3 – 18 months (depending on the state of someone’s immune system).
Distribution and Transmission
Leishmaniasis is present throughout tropical Africa and in parts of South America, central and East Asia, coastal regions of the Mediterranean, Northeast India and central China and the cutaneous form occurs in Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Prevention
Sandflies generally bite from dusk until dawn and usually stay close to the ground, therefore sleeping in high hammocks or in upper floors of buildings gives some protection. Treating insect nets with an insecticide will decrease the risk of being bitten, as the Sandflies are able to pass through some insect nets. Long sleeve shirts, trousers and the use of repellents are also recommended.
Signs and Symptoms
There is usually a local reaction as a lesion forms at the site of the bite and begins to grow larger. Unless Leishmaniasis is considered, its diagnosis is often confused with other localised skin reactions. Its onset is slow and is marked with fever and sweating, usually followed by swelling, spleen and liver complications.
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