Tropical Parasite Spreads and Takes Hold in the US, Particularly in Texas
TL;DR
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that a tropical disease called leishmaniasis, once seen mainly in Americans returning from travel abroad, now has a unique U.S. strain. The disease, spread by sandflies, could thrive in the U.S. due to improved climatic conditions. Researchers also highlight the risk of a deadlier form of the disease, visceral leishmaniasis, which can be transmitted by imported dogs carrying the parasite. Climate change and inadequate screening contribute to the spread of the disease, which can cause disfiguring skin ulcers. The U.S. lacks federal reporting on the disease, making it difficult to track its prevalence.
- Tropical disease now endemic in U.S., CDC says. In deadlier form, it's coming via dogs. USA TODAY
- This flesh-eating parasite spread by sand flies has foothold in U.S., appears to be endemic in Texas, CDC scientists report CBS News
- A Nasty Tropical Skin Disease Is Now Endemic in the U.S. Scientific American
- Tropical parasite gains a foothold in the US, especially in Texas Livescience.com
- Disfiguring Disease Spread by Flies Has 'Firm Foothold' in US: Scientists Newsweek
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