Studying the prevalence of leishmaniasis in the Yefren region

Abstract

Due to the spread of leishmaniasis in most areas of northwestern Libya, including the Western Mountain region, at varying rates, this study was conducted. Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease transmitted between humans and animals through the bite of a female Sand fly (SF), a very small insect, no more than one-third the size of a regular mosquito. Given the increasing number of cases in the study area, it is considered a significant public health problem, resulting in human and material losses and lost working hours. This disease is a major public health concern in Libya. Therefore, this study was conducted in the Yefren area on 351 patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis who visited the center over three years (2022-2023-2024). The aim was to determine the prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the region and its relationship to age, gender, and the location of the infection on the body. The study also aimed to highlight the seriousness of the disease, limit its spread, and assess its impact on human health. Cases were tracked during the aforementioned period. The results showed that the highest infection rate occurred in 2024. (209) cases, representing (60%). The highest infection rate was in the age group of (51 years and above), with (75) cases representing (21.37%). The infection rate of leishmaniasis according to gender was higher in males than in females, at (61%) and (39%) respectively. These rates are consistent with a previous study in the Yefren region and differ from other studies.