Medical Alerts Sudan December 18, 2010 18:27 GMT Leishmaniasis outbreak in the southern region An outbreak of visceral leishmaniasis (sometimes called kala-azar) has been reported in southeastern Sudan. The epidemic, the largest in eight years, has infected more than 9000 people since September 2009. At least 260 people have died. Areas most affected include Jonglei, Unity and Upper Nile (see map). It is possible that many more people are infected, but have not been diagnosed or reported as cases.
Health facilities are scarce in Sudan, and the country's infrastructure has been damaged by war and violence. It is difficult for people in remote areas to seek medical attention. Reduced immunity owing to chronic malnutrition is another factor considered to have worsened the outbreak.
Leishmaniasis is consistently present in Sudan. Outbreaks occur every every five to ten years.
The Disease
Sometimes called kala-azar or black fever, leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease. It is more common in residents than travelers, though anyone can be infected. Humans become infected when they are bitten by an infected sandfly. Visceral leishmaniasis causes systemic disease that can be fatal.
