Direct transmission would pose a far smaller risk to humans than transmission by insects such as sand flies or ticks. Vector transmission could create a serious public health concern, according to Dr. Breitschwerdt. The disease is potentially fatal in humans, but can be treated. Although there is no cure for leishmaniasis in dogs, remission is possible. Dr. Breitschwerdt said leishmaniasis was originally thought not to be in the United States, but he acknowledged the possibility that there could have been cases in the United States that weren't diagnosed.
Visceral leishmaniasis is prevalent in southern Europe, India, and South America.
Ongoing research efforts should allow scientists to determine the source of the US canine leishmaniasis, how it's being transmitted, and whether the cases in various states come from the same strain of the organism. With the aid of his colleagues, Dr. Breitschwerdt implemented new diagnostic tests at the NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine last spring in response to a disease outbreak among Foxhounds at a New York hunt club. Using cytology, PCR amplification, and serologic testing, Dr. Breitschwerdt and his team confirmed that the disease was canine leishmaniasis. It's still not clear how the dogs in New York became infected. Epidemiologic information will also be collected to evaluate risk factors.