Declining Visceral Leishmaniasis in Malta

Abstract

Aims: To study visceral leishmaniasis (VL) trends in Malta. Methods: Analysis of epidemiological and clinical trends, a veterinary questionnaire and questioning a canine laboratory testing facility. Results: A decline in VL in the past 25 years (1980-2005) was noted for both paediatric (p<0.001) and adult (p=0.002) populations. No seasonal variation in infection rates was found. Serological testing was reliable and a useful adjunct to bone marrow diagnosis. Treatment with sodium stibogluconate was highly effective and there were no permanent sequelae associated with disease or treatment. Vets are encountering less canine VL with no differences in localities Discussion: The decline in VL was paralleled by a decline in the stray canine reservoir population and by better management of canine infection in both sanctuaries and in domestic settings.