Prevalence of Visceral Leishmaniasis among Wildlife Rangers in Dinder National Park, Sudan
Authors: Ibrahim Bashir , Elmadani Mohammed , Sahar Hemeda , Gadallh Mogahid , Abdallh A. , Ahmed Abd Elbasit Elawad 
Published: June 2024

Background

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a significant public health concern in Sudan, particularly among populations exposed to vector-rich environments. This study aims to determine the prevalence of VL and associated risk factors among Wildlife Soldiers in Dinder National Park, Sudan.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional community-based study was conducted among 500 Wildlife Soldiers in Dinder National Park. Data were collected using a pre-prepared and pre-tested questionnaire covering demographic information, risk factors, and clinical signs and symptoms of VL. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression to assess associations between VL prevalence and various risk factors.

Results

The prevalence of VL was found to be 27.6%. Significant associations were observed between VL prevalence and educational level, military rank, awareness of VL signs and symptoms, awareness of VL transmission methods, awareness of VL control measures, and the practice of sleeping under a mosquito net. Soldiers with higher educational levels, those who were aware of VL transmission and control measures, and those who slept under nets had significantly lower odds of contracting VL. Conversely, lower-ranking soldiers and those with less awareness had higher prevalence rates.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of VL among Wildlife Soldiers in Dinder National Park underscores the need for targeted public health interventions. Strategies should include enhancing educational programs, improving awareness of VL prevention and control measures, and ensuring better access to protective measures such as mosquito nets. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies, detailed environmental assessments, and intervention trials to further reduce the burden of VL in this high-risk population.

Author Summary

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), or kala-azar, is a severe parasitic disease posing a significant health threat globally, including Sudan. This cross-sectional study investigates VL prevalence and associated risk factors among 500 Wildlife Soldiers in Dinder National Park, Sinnar State, Sudan. Data on demographics, risk factors, and VL signs were collected using a validated questionnaire. Findings reveal a 27.6% VL prevalence among soldiers, with significant associations noted for education level, military rank, VL awareness, transmission knowledge, and mosquito net use. Higher education and awareness correlated with lower VL rates, while lower-ranked and less-aware soldiers had higher prevalence. Targeted public health interventions are crucial to mitigate VL among Wildlife Soldiers, emphasizing education enhancement, awareness campaigns, and access to protective gear. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and environmental assessments to refine VL control strategies in this high-risk population. This study enhances understanding of VL factors in Dinder National Park and advocates for robust public health initiatives to combat this disease effectively.