Leishmaniasis in the United States Military

Leishmaniasis is a recurrent health problem for the U.S. and other militari es. Health care workers may be unfamiliar with the risk factors, transmissi on, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of this disease. A team of highly trained specialists is required to properly manage service members w ith leishmaniasis. Such care is available only in a few medical centers. Al though there are no prophylactic drugs to prevent this disease, control of insect populations and use of personal protection measures can minimize art hropod-related casualties. The impact of leishmaniasis on military operatio ns and research initiatives to better prevent, diagnose, and treat infectio n are discussed.