Investigating the Prevalence of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Tripoli, Libya (2020-2024)

Abstract

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a parasitic disease caused by leishmaniasis species; it is widespread in northwestern of Libya. It is normally transmitted to humans by the bite of infected female sand flies, and it is endemic in many places around the world. In Libya, it has become a growing public health concern in recent years. This study investigates the prevalence of CL, its seasonal trends and diagnostic methods employed over a five-year period from 2020 to 2024 in Tripoli, Libya. A total of 913 CL cases were in this study, and the results showed that the number of cases increased significantly in 2020 and 2022 due to internal migration and displacement as a result of local conflicts. The study also highlighted the highest prevalence of CL was reported in Jan, Feb, and Mar among individuals between the ages of 16 - 47. To detect leishmaniasis, microscopy was used to visualize parasites to detect leishmania, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as they proved to be a reliable technique. These findings underscore the need to improve vector control, improve diagnostic tools and to raise the public awareness to combat the ongoing leishmaniasis endemic in Libya.