Diversity of cutaneous leishmaniasis vectors and reservoirs in Islamic Republic of Iran.

Abstract

Background Cutaneous leishmaniasis remains a significant public health concern in over 98 countries. Its transmission and development depends on complex ecological interactions between Leishmania spp. and its vectors and reservoir hosts. Aim To examine the diversity of sand fly species and assess Leishmania major vectors and reservoirs in Mehran County, Ilam Province, Southwest Islamic Republic of Iran. Methods We collected sand flies (vectors) from different habitats using standard traps, and simultaneously captured rodents (reservoirs) living close to human settlements. We then subjected these vectors and reservoirs to molecular analysis to assess the presence of Leishmania parasites. We analysed the data using the Cochran-Armitage test. Results Seven sand fly species were identified. Of the 10 638 sand flies collected, 46% were Phlebotomus papatasi, and 31.1% of 74 rodents collected showed microscopic evidence of Leishmania infection. There was significant seasonal variation in the distribution of sand flies and Leishmania infection. The highest distribution was in spring (44%) and lowest in winter (7%) (P < 0.001), while the highest infection rates (≥ 3.33%) were in May, June, September, and October. Conclusion The presence of L. major infection in both Ph. papatasi and T. indica in Mehran County is evidence that cutaneous leishmaniasis is being transmitted zoonotically. Strategies to control the vectors and reservoirs are needed in this endemic area.