Residents of the municipality of Sabana de Uchire in the coastal province of Anzoátegui blame the failure by authorities to fumigate insect breeding habitats for the rise in cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis. With at least 66 infections reported, there are urgent calls for control measures against the sand fly vector. Read more
Advice for travellers
Leishmaniasis is generally a low risk for travellers. The parasitic disease is found in parts of the tropics, subtropics, and southern Europe. There are two main forms – cutaneous and visceral – both transmitted by bites from infected sand flies. There is no vaccine or preventative medication: avoiding infection relies on minimising sand fly bites. Read more on the disease and prevention.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.