Deadly Leishmaniasis Parasite Spread by Sand Flies Now Endemic in US, Linked to Climate Change and Imported Dogs

Different Strain of Leishmaniasis Parasite Identified in Texas Residents who Did Not Travel, Indicating Local Transmission; Dogs Imported Without Proper Screening Highlighted as Potential Parasite Carriers.

The Leishmaniasis parasite, which is spread by sand flies and can cause skin sores or organ damage, is now endemic in the United States and is seen in patients who have not travelled overseas, leading to the conclusion that it is now locally transmitted.
Dogs imported from abroad and not properly screened have been identified as potential carriers of the parasite that leads to visceral leishmaniasis, which damages internal organs and can be deadly in 95% of cases without treatment.
Climate change, specifically warmer conditions in the southern US, could be creating a more favorable environment for sand flies, contributing to the spread of the parasite and disease.
A distinct strain of the Leishmaniasis parasite, called Leishmania mexicana, has been identified in patients who have not traveled outside of the US, primarily from Texas, signaling transmission by local sand fly populations.
Efforts to prevent the spread of the disease include stronger screening procedures for imported dogs, use of sand fly insecticides and repellants, and raising awareness among medical professionals to increase detection and treatment.