Leishmaniasis: what is it, how dangerous is it, how do you get it, and should you vaccinate?

What is Leishmaniasis?

• Leishmaniasis is a parasitic infectious disease caused by a single-celled parasite.
• These Leishmania parasites are transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies.
• In rare cases, Leishmaniasis can be transmitted via humans, dogs, and rats, for example through blood-to-blood contact or blood transfusions.

Where does Leishmaniasis occur abroad?

• The disease is quite common in tropical and subtropical areas, such as parts of South America, Africa, Southern Europe, and Southwest Asia.
• In areas with severe poverty and malnutrition, the risk of leishmaniasis is higher.

What are the symptoms of Leishmaniasis?

• The symptoms of leishmaniasis can vary depending on the type of infection. Characteristic symptoms include skin ulcers at the site of the bite and ulcers on internal organs.
• Other symptoms include, for example, fever, weight loss, an enlarged liver or spleen, and general malaise.
• On average, it takes two to six months for symptoms to become visible; sometimes this occurs after one or two weeks, and sometimes it takes years.

What to do if you have contracted Leishmaniasis abroad?

• Leishmaniasis can be treated, but the effectiveness of the treatment depends on the Leishmania species involved, the type of symptoms, and the severity of the infection.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent far-reaching complications.
• There is no vaccine against leishmaniasis.

How to prevent Leishmaniasis, and what to do against sandflies?

1. Use insect repellents and wear protective clothing.
2. Sleep under fine-mesh mosquito nets.
3. Avoid beaches and places known for sandflies.
4. Be careful during twilight and at night, as sandflies are active then.