Leishmaniasis transmission in an ecotourism area: potential vectors in Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil

A study on Ilha Grande, a popular ecotourism destination in Brazil's Rio de Janeiro State, reveals concerning findings about leishmaniasis transmission. Researchers identified five sand fly species as potential vectors for the disease, including Lutzomyia (Nyssomyia) intermedia and L. migonei, with the latter showing a high natural infection rate (10.3%) by Leishmania (Viannia) sp., likely L. (V.) braziliensis. The presence of L. (Lutzomyia) longipalpis, linked to visceral leishmaniasis, and L. (N.) flaviscutellata, associated with diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis, was also confirmed in peridomestic areas. The study highlights the epidemiological significance of these vectors, particularly for tourists visiting Ilha Grande, and emphasizes the need for health education to mitigate disease burden.

Carvalho, B. M., Maximo, M., Costa, W. A., de Santana, A. L. F., da Costa, S. M., da Costa Rego, T. A. N., de Pita Pereira, D., & Rangel, E. F. (2013). Leishmaniasis transmission in an ecotourism area: potential vectors in Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. Parasites & Vectors, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1756-3305-6-325