What is Kala-azar?

Oct. 20, 2024

India could be at the threshold of eliminating Kala-azar as a public health problem, with the country having managed to keep the number of cases under one in 10,000 as per the WHO parameters for elimination certification for two consecutive years now.

About Kala-azar:

Kala-azar, also known as Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), is a severe form of leishmaniasis caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani.
It is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female sandfly, primarily Phlebotomus argentipes in India.
The disease affects some of the world’s poorest people and is associated with malnutrition, population displacement, poor housing, a weak immune system and lack of financial resources.
People with HIV and other conditions that weaken their immune system, are more likely to get sick from a Leishmania infection.
Symptoms: The disease is characterized by irregular bouts of fever, substantial weight loss, swelling of the spleen and liver, and severe anaemia if left untreated, which can lead to death within two years.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis combines clinical signs with parasitological or serological tests, such as the rK39 diagnostic kit.
Treatment: There are several anti-parasitic medications available that treat leishmaniasis.