Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that continues to affect thousands across Africa, particularly in impoverished and conflict-affected regions. Despite being preventable and treatable, it remains a major public health issue due to poor living conditions, weak healthcare infrastructure and limited awareness.
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: what it is
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is a parasitic skin infection that begins when a person is bitten by an infected sandfly. It is caused by parasites of the Leishmania genus and it is the most common in Africa. After several weeks, ulcers or lesions appear at the site of the bite —often on exposed parts of the body like the face, arms, or legs. These sores may be painless but can leave behind permanent scars and disfigurement.
Although it is rarely fatal, the disease can have devastating psychological and social impacts and it carries a deep social stigma, especially among women and children. In some cases, the infection can spread or become chronic if not treated, causing further complications.
How does Leishmaniasis affect humans?
The Leishmania parasite infects the body’s immune cells, primarily affecting the skin in cutaneous cases. Beyond the ulcers themselves, people may experience swelling, inflammation and secondary infections. In cases where the disease is misdiagnosed or untreated, the lesions can last for months or even years.
In addition to Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Africa also sees cases of Visceral Leishmaniasis, which attacks internal organs and can be deadly without treatment. However, cutaneous forms are more widespread and visible, affecting daily life and productivity, especially in rural settings.
Can it be prevented and treated?
Yes… but access is limited. There is no vaccine, but Leishmaniasis can be prevented by avoiding sandfly bites. Methods include:
- Insecticide-treated bed nets
- Protective clothing
- Use of insect repellents
- Environmental control (reducing sandfly habitats)
Treatment usually involves antiparasitic drugs such as pentavalent antimonials or miltefosine and, in some cases, localized therapies like heat or cryotherapy. However, diagnosis and treatment are often delayed in Africa due to lack of awareness, limited laboratory services and few trained healthcare providers.
What is the impact of cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Africa?
The burden of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is particularly high in countries like Sudan, Ethiopia, Algeria and Tunisia. The disease often strikes the poorest populations, where living conditions and sanitation allow sandflies to thrive. Victims, especially children, may be excluded from school, employment or marriage due to disfiguring scars. The psychological toll is often as serious as the physical one.
In humanitarian crisis zones, outbreaks can be more intense due to mass displacement and inadequate shelter; these conditions favor sandfly reproduction and disease transmission.
What efforts are being made to fight Cutaneous Leishmaniasis?
Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), DNDi (Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative) and national ministries of health are working to improve diagnosis, treatment and surveillance. Key strategies include:
- Training healthcare workers
- Strengthening disease reporting systems
- Distributing bed nets and repellents
- Supporting research into better treatments
Despite these efforts, Leishmaniasis continues to be underreported and underfunded. A stronger commitment to eliminating this neglected disease is needed —combining public health action, community engagement and investment in medical research. These are key factors in Fundación Anesvad’s strategy to adress its eradication. We strongly believe in a future with Global Health; we believe in a future where Leishmaniasis does no longer exist.
