Thread: How big of a problem is Cutaneous Leishmaniasis?????

I just happened upon a web-site about Cutaneous Leishmaniasis and clinics for treatment in the expat community of Cerro Azul. Wow - I was a bit shocked and dismayed. I hope to do alot of hiking and out door activities once I make the move to Panama and this just makes me nervous. Will I have to wear long sleeves and pant and socks all the time? The pictures on the website were of bites on the face, ear and finger - all usually exposed areas. I also worry for my cats. Even though they are strictly indoor cats, this sand fly, because it is smaller than a mosquito can and does get into homes. I would love to hear that these are isolated incidents. The website I was looking at was www.leishmaniasis-treatment.info/ if anyone is interested. This was the first I ever heard about it on any message board.
Thanks,
Pam

I first heard about last month at Bocas del Toros. That is the only place I have encountered in Panama

The pics on that website are from 2007. I have never heard of it, but we don't live by the beach.

I didn't take note of the date, I guess I was too in shock at the pictures and what it may mean for my retirement activities. The clinic was in Cerro Azul which is a higher elevation. I thought this would be mainly an issue for the lowlands but according to the website it is also in the highlands.

Here is some more info on the disease.
Monsters Inside Me Leishmania

Remember This Word - Leishmaniasis - Panama Guide
The 2nd is an older link but shows some of the distribution in Panama.
There is also progress being made on a vaccine. A release of a canine vaccine is expected later this year.