Page 178 - LECTURE NOTES

the number of mites. Vacuum cleaning of beds, carpets and furniture is also effective.

General insecticides used for pest control are not effective but a special product
containing benzyl benzoate is available, which destroys mites when applied to

mattresses, and upholstery.

7.12.8 Leishmaniasis
Leishmaniasis is a term used to describe a number of closely related diseases caused

by several distinct species, subspecies and strains of leishmania parasites.

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

Known under a variety of common names, such as oriental sore in old world, uta or
chiclero ulcer in new world.

It is caused by leishmania major, leishmania tropica and leishmania aethiopica in old
world and by leishmania braziliensis, leishmania mexicana and leishmania peruana in

new world.

It is characterized by typical ulcer that starts as a nodule at the site of bite, and then a

crust develops in the middle which exposes the ulcer.

7.12.8.1. Prevention and control of leishmaniasis
1. Personal protection

Individuals can prevent infection by avoiding being bitten by sand flies. It is

recommended that personal protection measures be taken, such as repellents, fine
mesh screens, insecticide treated clothing and/ or insecticide treated bed nets are used.

2. Application of insecticides
- Spraying the interior surfaces of houses with residual insecticides, such as DDT,

Malathion, propoxur, etc.
- If out door resting sites are known they can be sprayed with residual insecticides.

3. Application of basic sanitation

This is aimed at abolishing the breeding sites around human habitation, such as
proper disposal of refuse; filling of cracks and holes in the soils and walls.

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