Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is a rising epidemic in Pakistan. It is a major public health problem in the country, especially alongside regions bordering the neighbouring Afghanistan and cities that have had the maximum influx of refugees. Moreover, the problem is especially acute in Balochistan and Sindh.

Leishmaniasis is transmitted by the bite of female phlebotomine sand fly. It is called upon the public health agencies in Pakistan, especially the National Institute of Health and the provincial health departments to design and implement policy on the control of disease spreading vectors in Pakistan.

Vector control would go a long way in controlling Leishmaniasis and other vector-borne diseases like malaria as well.

DR. KHALID AHMEDKarachi