Leishmaniasis - Bolivia

Leishmaniasis – Bolivia

March 11, 2022
< 1 min read

Until March 11th, 2022, a number of leishmaniasis cases, were confirmed in Villamontes, Bolivia. Although cutaneous leishmaniasis was reported previously in this region, visceral leishmaniasis is new and have put the health authorities on high alert.

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.

Seven visceral leishmaniasis cases, including a child and a mother, have been diagnosed with the disease.

The person in charge of the health unit at the Regional Government of Villa Montes has declared, "Health personnel are being trained and surely this Friday the team of professionals will raise the recommendations that we can assume at the regional level. We have presented a contingency plan and surely based on it they will tell us what other tasks we can face."

Photo: Leishmania tropica, one of more than 15 species.

Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by parasites and spread by the bite of a certain sandfly. The cutaneous form presents with skin ulcers. Risk factors include poverty, malnutrition, deforestation, and urbanization. Leishmaniasis can be partly prevented by sleeping under nets treated with insecticide and fumigation.

Leishmaniasis occurs in some 98 countries and affects about 2 million people yearly, and causes between 20 and 50 thousand deaths.

<<< Back to alert index

While you are here, help us with

Access to Essential Drugs

One third of children, women and men have no access to essential medicines, putting lives at risk. Hospitals frequently run out of medicines and other essential supplies. Our Med-Aid program connects hospitals with aid and ensures that they receive exactly what they need.

Access to Diagnostics

Much of today’s innovation is either not reaching or not suitable for people in developing countries.

Data to Improve Health

Faster and reactive systems to help provide lifesaving support to vulnerable communities.

Support our work. It only takes a minute but makes a world of difference!

With your help we can bring modern diagnostics and essential medicines to people in need, track disease outbreaks better and help prevent future pandemics.