Local Leishmaniasis Transmission Detected in Canary Islands

The first cases of local leishmaniasis transmission have been identified in the Canary Islands. Leishmaniasis is a potentially fatal disease transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies and can spread to both dogs and humans.

Environmental factors such as deforestation, agricultural expansion, urbanisation, and global warming are increasing the risk of transmission. Dams and irrigation systems create humid zones that favour the proliferation of the insect.

In pets, the most common symptoms include hair loss around the eyes, ears, and nose.