The leishmaniases are a group of vector-borne diseases caused by a protozoan parasite from the genus Leishmania and transmitted through the bite of infected female sandflies. The only proven vectors of human disease are species and subspecies of Phlebotomus in the Old World and Lutzomyia in the New World. The biology of each species of sandfly is unique and complex and has a direct bearing on the epidemiology of leishmaniasis and vector control. The temporal and spatial distribution of sandflies depend on local geographical and climatic factors.

Well implemented vector control through integrated vector management can play an important role in the elimination and control of leishmaniasis. The approach involves:

• Combined use of safe and cost–effective vector control tools and methods targeting leishmaniasis along with other co-prevailing vector-borne diseases. The methods of choice are indoor residual spraying for endophilic sandflies, use of WHO-recommended insecticide-treated or long-lasting insecticidal nets, environmental management including local sanitation and improved housing. The potential of pyrethroid-treated clothing, curtains and dog-collars may be explored. WHO guides Member States on several aspects of vector control such as the choice of insecticides, application equipment, dosages, quality assurance and provision of key resources and capacity-building.
• Evidence-based decision-making, which requires prior knowledge of local epidemiology (e.g. ecology of area, seasonality of transmission, anthroponotic or zoonotic modes of transmission), vector bionomics (namely species distribution, ecology, behaviour such as endophilic, peridomestic or sylvatic), are important components of planning and control operations. Interventions are guided by operational research, surveillance and monitoring and evaluation.
• Intra- and intersectoral collaboration involving collaboration among health and non-health sectors.
• Advocacy for greater allocation of resources, social mobilization for community engagement, and legislation to strengthen regulatory control where required.
• Capacity-building for vector control planning, management and monitoring and evaluation.

Policy and strategies

Vector control

Insecticide resistance

Product evaluation