Comparison of collection methods for Phlebotomus argentipes sand flies to use in a molecular xenomonitoring system for the surveillance of visceral leishmaniasis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The kala-azar elimination programme has resulted in a significant reduction in visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases across the Indian Subcontinent. To detect any resurgence of transmission, a sensitive cost-effective surveillance system is required. Molecular xenomonitoring (MX), detection of pathogen DNA/RNA in vectors, provides a proxy of human infection in the lymphatic filariasis elimination programme. To determine whether MX can be used for VL surveillance in a low transmission setting, large numbers of the sand fly vector Phlebotomus argentipes are required. This study will determine the best method for capturing P. argentipes females for MX.

Methodology/principal findings

The field study was performed in two programmatic and two non-programmatic villages in Bi

SUBMITTER: McIntyre-Nolan S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10501600 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature