Leishmaniasis, a global concern for travel medicine

Leishmaniasis, a parasitic infection listed by the World Health Organization among the 6 most important tropical diseases, is endemic in approximately 88 countries worldwide, with a global estimate of 350 million individuals at risk. The present report aims to review the imported cases of leishmaniasis reported in retrospective studies or described as clusters or single interesting cases. It is apparent that some European countries considered as premier tourist attractions export leishmaniasis: Greece, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Croatia and Turkey. Travelling and exploring the New World countries, especially the Amazonian jungle and the archaeological ancient sites, is a continuous challenge, with a risk of acquiring various tropical infections. Imported leishmaniasis has occurred in individuals who have gone to work abroad in improper conditions, without being aware of the risk of severe vector-borne infections. Exported cases are carried by refugees and immigrants from endemic developing countries. Extended military operations are a further source of imported cases. In the new millennium, the import and export of leishmaniasis continue to be of major concern for public health services worldwide as a result of increased mobility.