Tropical Parasite Spreading via Sand Flies Gains Foothold in US

Leishmaniasis, a deadly tropical disease spread by sand flies, is gaining a foothold in the US, with cases now being reported in people who haven't traveled outside the country. The disease, which was once rare in the US, is now endemic and experts warn that a warming climate could further expand the territory of sand flies and increase the spread of diseases like leishmaniasis. The only reported cases of leishmaniasis in the US so far have been from Texas, but sand flies have been found as far north as New Jersey, Delaware, and Ohio. There is no human vaccine for leishmaniasis, but vaccines are available for dogs. The CDC advises people in regions with sand flies to take precautions such as avoiding outdoor activities during peak sand fly activity and using insect repellent.