Occurrence of Lutzomyia longipalpis and human and canine cases of visceral leishmaniasis and evaluation of their expansion in the Northwest region of the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil

Author(s)

Oliveira, Agda Maria ; Guirado, Marluci Monteiro ; Dibo, Margareth Regina ; Colebrusco Rodas, Lilian Aparecida ; Bocchi, Monica Regina ; Chiaravalloti-Neto, Francisco

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical; v. 49, n. 1, p. 10-pg., 2016-01-01.

Abstract

Introduction: This paper aims to describe the dispersion of Lutzomyia longipalpis and the autochthonous occurrence of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in the Northwest region of the State of Sao Paulo between 2007 and 2013 and to analyze their expansion. Methods: Information about the vector and associated cases was described using maps. The incidence, mortality, and lethality of human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL) were calculated. In municipalities in which more than one HVL case occurred, incidences were calculated according to census sector, and spatial and spatiotemporal clusters were identified. Results: The first case of HVL was reported in the municipality of Jales in 2007. By 2013, the vector and the disease had expanded from west to east, with the vector being detected in 29 municipalities. A total of 11 municipalities had cases of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL), and six had cases of HVL. Vector expansion occurred by vicinity with previously infested municipalities, and the expansion of VL was related to the major highways and the capital municipalities of the micro-regions in the study area. The highest incidence of HVL occurred in children between 0-4 years old, and the highest mortality and lethality occurred among persons aged 60 and older. The occurrence of HLV was more intense in the peripheral areas of municipalities with the disease. Conclusions: The findings of this study may be useful for improving VL surveillance and control activities by slowing VL expansion and/or mitigating VL effects when they occur. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/20279-1 - Spatial analysis of the occurrence of American visceral leishmaniasis in São Paulo State, Brazil
• Grantee: Francisco Chiaravalloti Neto
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants