1. Leishmania is a genus of parasites that are transmitted through the bites of infected sandflies.
2. The most common form of leishmaniasis is caused by the parasite Leishmania donovani.
3. Leishmania can cause a range of symptoms, from mild skin sores to life-threatening organ damage.
4. Treatment for leishmaniasis usually involves a course of antiparasitic medication.
5. Research is ongoing to develop a vaccine for leishmania to prevent infection in at-risk populations.
6. The prevalence of leishmania is highest in tropical and subtropical regions where sandflies are common.
7. People can reduce their risk of leishmaniasis by avoiding areas where sandflies are prevalent and using insect repellent.
8. Leishmania parasites can be detected in the blood or tissue samples of infected individuals.
9. Dogs can also be infected with leishmania, and may develop symptoms similar to those seen in humans.
10. Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that affects millions of people worldwide each year.