Leishmania major Infection in Sand Flies in Mali
Author Information
Author(s): Anderson Jennifer M., Samake Sibiry, Jaramillo-Gutierrez Giovanna, Sissoko Ibrahim, Coulibaly Cheick A., Traoré Bourama, Soucko Constance, Guindo Boubacar, Diarra Dansine, Fay Michael P., Lawyer Phillip G., Doumbia Seydou, Valenzuela Jesus G., Kamhawi Shaden
Primary Institution: National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health
Hypothesis
What is the seasonality and prevalence of Leishmania major infection in Phlebotomus duboscqi in Central Mali?
Conclusion
Phlebotomus duboscqi is the primary vector of Leishmania major in Mali, with an overall infection prevalence of 2.66%.
Supporting Evidence
- P. duboscqi was the most abundant sand fly collected, representing 99% of the collected Phlebotomus species.
- The infection prevalence of pooled females was estimated at 2.66% using PCR.
- Significant seasonal effects were observed with peaks in May-July and October-November.
- Sand flies were collected year-round, indicating their persistent presence in the area.
- Two species of Phlebotomus were identified, with P. duboscqi being the predominant species.
- Monthly collection trends were similar during both collection years.
- Significant differences in sand fly counts were observed between the two villages.
Takeaway
This study found that a type of sand fly called Phlebotomus duboscqi spreads a disease called cutaneous leishmaniasis in Mali, and it was found to be infected with the parasite that causes this disease.
Methodology
Sand flies were collected using light traps and resting site collections over three years in two villages, and PCR was used to determine infection prevalence.
Limitations
The study did not explore the role of potential rodent reservoirs in the transmission of Leishmania major.
Participant Demographics
The study was conducted in two villages, Kemena and Sougoula, each with approximately 1000 inhabitants.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0002
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.19–1.69
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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