Abstract:
Leishmaniasis is a major public health concern in Sri Lanka. More
than 2000 cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) have been reported from
the island since 2000. The most fatal visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is also
emerging as a threat in the country. Leishmania donovani zymodeme MON 37 is
the identified parasite responsible for CL. Phlebotomus argentipes sensu lato, a
species complex, is suspected to be the vector for CL. A monthly survey was
conducted in Delft Island, Pungudutheevu and Chunnakam to assess the
seasonal distribution of the sibling species of the Argentipes species
complex. A questionnaire based study was performed in Delft Island, where
the threat of sandflies is high, to assess the public awareness related to sand
fly bite and the disease. All three members of the Argentipes complex were
identified. The seasonal distribution varied, as in Delft Island the presence of
sandflies was observed throughout the year with peak abundance during the
dry season (April-September) while in Pungudutheevu and Chunnakam
there were two peaks observed, after monsoon (February–May) and with
onset of monsoon (October–November). Phlebotomus (Euphlebotomus) glaucus,
which is generally considered as a wet zone species, was found abundant
during dry season. More than 80% of them have close contacts with
potential animal reservoirs like cows, goats, cats and dogs. None of the
respondents were aware of leishmaniasis, although 91% of them are aware of
the sandfly bites. Only 8.7% of them have reported that sandflies breed on
soil. Twenty two percent of the respondents experience sandfly bites all
around the year. Neem smoking and mosquito net seem to be the most
popular method of insect bite prevention followed by the use of mosquito
coils. The respondents spend around 50-300 Sri Lankan rupees per month for
preventing from insect bite. The results indicate the need of a public
awareness programme related to sandfly bites and the possible transmission
of leishmaniasis and its consequences in the region.
