Case Study 1: Vector-borne diseases in the Iberian Peninsula

Overview of the Case Study 1

Vector-borne diseases have the potential to (re)emerge in the coming decades due climate changes and human-induced conditions favouring the expansion of vectors into new regions, and other aspects of globalisation such as traveling and migration. Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease caused by Leishmania parasites and transmitted to vertebrates by infected female sand flies. Among the Leishmania species, Leishmania infantum is responsible for zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis — a severe and often lethal disease when untreated — as well as cutaneous leishmaniasis. This disease is endemic in the Mediterranean region, where dogs serve as the primary domestic hosts and reservoirs for human infection.
Dogs are highly vulnerable to infection by this parasite and clinical manifestations can range from mild to severe. However, in many cases, infected dogs may not show any visible signs of illness. These “clinically healthy” dogs can still carry the parasite and spread it to sand flies, which then transmit the disease to other animals or humans. Despite advances in topical repellents and insecticides, canine vaccines and treatments developed by pharmaceutical companies, controlling infections in dogs remains difficult. 

Objectives and goals

The goals of this case study are to develop a comprehensive One Health approach to tackle canine leishmaniasis. The study aims to use data from sand fly monitoring and pharmaceutical research to create, together with veterinarians and other end users such as dog owners and veterinarian pharma and authorities, more effective prevention strategies and systems that can detect risks early. 

Progress and key activities 

Stakeholders were invited to participate in the first co-creation workshop held last December to identify the information and tools that should be integrated into the development of the early warning system and digital tools to minimize the risk of leishmaniasis exposure and to avoid sand fly-prone areas and habitats.

Insights and upcoming actions

The next step involves the ongoing development and validation of the deployed Early Warning Systems and digital tools in the Iberian Peninsula, specifically in Portugal. This process, supported by veterinarians, aims to assess and ensure that the tools align with user expectations and operational requirements in practice.

Tackling Challenges through One Health approach

Considering the growing challenges posed by climate change and globalization in vector-borne diseases like leishmaniasis, the development of Early Warning Systems and digital tools is essential. These tools, supported by a collaborative “One Health” approach, will enhance our understanding of the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Strengthening disease monitoring is key to mitigating the impact of this zoonotic disease. By improving early detection and response, we can better manage transmission, reduce the risks of future outbreaks, and safeguard the health of both dogs and humans.

Considering this work, Dr. Carla Maia and the APMVEAC team have joined the Planet4HEALTH project to tackle this issue in Case Study 1a. The team is eager to continue collaborating with the other partners, applying a One Health approach to enhance the impact and effectiveness of future efforts.