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Leishmaniasis disease is reportedly increasing in Syria as the humanitarian crises in the country deepens. There have been hundreds of cases of leishmaniasis, transmitted by sand flies (Phlebotomus sp.), which are multiplying amid the heaps of uncollected refuse. Rodent and vector control activities have broken down and leishmania infected dogs are not being captured and killed.
According to a United Nations spokesperson, people in Syria are struggling to stay warm, with temperatures dropping in the lead up to January, traditionally the coldest month in the country. Winter has set in, and rains have also begun, adding to the misery many people are facing, especially those in unfinished or makeshift homes, with little or no ability to obtain heating fuel to keep warm. Many people are still in their summer clothes and shoes.
Humanitarian agencies working inside the country continue to provide aid, including food, medicine and medical supplies. However, only a fraction of the 2.5 million people who need assistance have received it due to the dangerous combination of limited access, lack of partners in sufficient numbers and fuel to operate, and a funding shortage.
One in four hospitals is reportedly out of service, some are inaccessible and those that are still functioning are overwhelmed. Many medical staff have left, and the shortage of both medicines and equipment is life threatening. While the UN and its partners are providing medicines, equipment, mobile clinics and large-scale vaccinations, it cannot compensate for such extensive damage and destruction of the country’s medical infrastructure.
Via: United Nations Relief Web
Advice for Travellers
Leishmaniasis is endemic in Syria. Travellers should take steps to avoid sandfly bites by the use of repellents, clothing, nets etc. Sandflies fly low and bite mainly from dusk to dawn; particular care should be taken to protect ankles and legs when out of doors in the evening.
Find further information on Leishmaniasis here
Find further information on Relief Workers here
