Leishmaniasis in Iraq

This work provides clear guidance about leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis is a major public health problem in Iraq. The disease is endemic in countries of central Asia and the Middle East, including Iraq, and mostly seen in marshes regions South of Iraq. The situation is complicated by recurrent epidemics, a weak health system, malnutrition, and poverty; no vector control activities are being implemented. The epidemiology of leishmaniasis is diverse and complex, factors can change under the influence of climate, ecology and behavior of humans, vectors and reservoirs. Control strategy is based on early diagnosis and treatment. Mortality and morbidity from leishmaniasis worldwide show a worrying increasing trend.