Integrated surveillance of sandflies as vectors of leishmaniasis reveals the presence of a new Leishmania species with possible implication in human health in Europe

Abstract

Due to the increasing number of human leishmaniasis cases in Murcia, sandflies were sampled and 7.48% of female sandflies tested positive. The majority were Leishmania infantum, but Leishmania adleri was found in one female Sergentomyia minuta. The presence of L. adleri in sandflies raises concerns about zoonotic transmission. Further research is needed to investigate its spread and potential impact on public health. Surveillance of sandflies and potential hosts is essential to prevent the spread of the disease.