Leishmaniasis: Epidemiological Report for the Americas. No.13, December 2024

Abstract

This report presents the leishmaniasis trend and a detailed analysis of the data corresponding to 2023 of the different clinical forms of this disease in the Region of the Americas. In addition, a series of infographics are included with specific data on cutaneous (CL), mucosal (ML) and visceral (VL) leishmaniasis in endemic countries.

Over the years, there has been a reduction trend of leishmaniasis cases; however, when the data are analyzed separately by country, it is verified that the trend of VL cases is increasing in Argentina and Paraguay, and that of CL cases in Argentina, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico and Suriname.

In addition, there has been an improvement in the completeness of the data reported in the Regional Leishmaniasis System of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO); nevertheless, there is still a need to work intensively with the countries to optimize the completeness of data related to care, such as treatment and patient outcome.

In 2023, the trend of VL-HIV co-infection cases continued to increase, and a 19% proportion was reported, the highest registered since 2018. On the other hand, a small reduction in the VL cases fatality rate is observed in 2022 and 2023; however, the trend is still increasing, and interventions are needed, such as having rapid tests for diagnosis in primary care and including liposomal amphotericin B as the first line of treatment, for greater safety, and to reduce treatment time.

Looking ahead, it is expected to improve the quality of data to generate information to assess progress towards achieving the goals and indicators of the PAHO's Plan of Action to Strengthen Surveillance and Control of Leishmaniasis in the Americas 2023-2030 and the World Health Organization's Roadmap for Neglected Tropical Diseases 2021-2030.