Leishmaniasis is a potentially fatal flesh eating disease that is on the rise, and scientists from the University of Hull state that global warming appears to be the culprit. Leishmaniasis is caused by a parasite transmitted via sand fly bites usually found only in tropical climates. Rising temperatures will increase the number of countries the sand fly colonises, moving further north and through Europe.
"Because of travel and tourism, nations already affected by the disease are on the rise. Military personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan are exposed to conditions ripe for developing Leishmaniasis. Global warming and the military presence in countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan mean that this horrific and debilitating disease is affecting more people than ever before," says Dr. Ross Boyle, lead researcher on the project at the University of Hull. "My co-investigator, Dr. Tim Paget at the Medway School of Pharmacy, Hull PhD student Carrie-Anne Bristow and myself wanted to work towards finding a significantly better treatment.” Leishmaniasis currently affects 12 million people around the world, with 350 million people at risk of infection and a further 2 million new cases popping up each year." (treehugger)
Current treatments have unpleasant side effects and the chemists at the university are working on alternative methods of treatment to counter the parasite's increasing drug resistance. After years of research, they've discovered a method to halt the effects of Leishmaniasis by using photodynamic therapy - traditionally used to treat cancers. Also, medicinal chemists at Hull have synthesised the basic core molecule which could lead to a cure for cutaneous and mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis.
So I guess we're going to have be more aware the next time we're out on the beach or out camping. Bring your mini-torch, any sort of nettings, plenty of bug spray, but in my experience - covering up is the best protection. Some facts about the sand fly:
- They don't fly that fast – even at a slow walking pace they can't keep up and when it's windy they can't cope and will retreat to the grass or sheltered forest. If you stop for a break, it's best to stay out in the open where there is enough wind to keep them away. If you're worried about the sun and getting too dark, have a light umbrella handy and sunblock.
- They go away at night – as soon as it gets dark the sand flies will disappear, but will return at first light.
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