Leishmaniases: Epidemiological Report in the Americas, No. 3 (July 2015)

Abstract

[Introduction]. In the Americas, leishmaniasis are a public health problem based on their magnitude, geographic distribution, and clinical forms which can cause mutilations, incapacities, and death. In recent years, the Pan-American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) fulfilling the mandate in Resolution 60.13 of 2007 and CD 49.R19 of 2009, has supported and worked jointly with endemic countries to reduce the severe forms of the disease by strengthening surveillance and control, providing early access to diagnostics and adequate treatment, as well as reducing contact with the human vector. Actions taken include the organization of services, improving the knowledge and expertise of professionals in the areas of diagnosis, treatment, and entomology, and strengthening the surveillance system with updated and available information.