Ministry of Health of the Republic of Cyprus Warns of Leishmaniasis: Disease Detected in Approximately 3% of the Population

The authorities of the Republic of Cyprus remind of the risks of leishmaniasis — a parasitic disease transmitted exclusively through the bites of infected female sandflies. According to medical experts, the infection is detected in approximately 2.5–3% of the population in Cyprus, with a significant portion of cases linked to living in or visiting areas with high insect activity.

As doctors note, the sandflies that carry leishmaniasis most often breed in damp, dark places with organic waste. In Cyprus, such conditions are most typical for rural and suburban zones, as well as areas with active livestock farming.

High-risk zones include rural areas and the outskirts of all major regions of the island — Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, and Famagusta. Specialists pay special attention to villages and semi-urban areas where accumulations of organic waste are present, which are considered an important reservoir for the parasite.

The Ministry of Health emphasizes that the disease is not transmitted from person to person and spreads only through sandfly bites. Despite this, the infection remains a relevant public health issue as it can lead to chronic skin lesions and prolonged treatment.

The authorities remind that prevention includes the use of repellents, protective clothing in the evening and nighttime, and the installation of fine-mesh mosquito nets. Additionally, regular cleaning of the areas around housing and monitoring the health of pets, especially dogs, is recommended.

Medics urge residents not to ignore skin changes that occur weeks or months after insect bites and to seek medical assistance in a timely manner for diagnosis and prevention of complications.