This Case Study aims to address significant public health challenges and develop comprehensive prevention strategies and enhance readiness against vector-borne diseases.
A. Leishmaniasis in Dogs:
Leishmaniases, transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies, are significant vector-borne infectious diseases in the EU and Mediterranean regions, posing a major veterinary concern. Dogs, particularly in southern Europe, are susceptible to infection by Leishmania infantum, with clinical manifestations ranging from mild to severe disease. Leishmania infantum infection can cause chronic infection without clinical signs, leaving dogs clinically healthy and asymptomatic, while still being infectious to vectors. Despite efforts by pharmaceutical companies to develop vaccines and treatments, canine infections remain challenging to manage. The lack of control over animal leishmaniasis (AniL) underscores the need for improved prevention strategies and early warning systems. The case study aims to develop a OneHealth approach to combat AniL, leveraging sand fly surveillance records and pharmaceutical research data.
B. Mosquito Alert and Mosquito-borne Diseases:
Utilizing a mobile app, citizen scientists can report mosquito sightings, which are reviewed and classified by entomologists. The system has been successful in Spain, providing valuable surveillance and early warning capabilities for public health authorities. PLANET4HEALTH aims to enhance these capabilities throughout the Iberian Peninsula, improving estimates of disease-vector mosquito risks. Collaboration with social, political, and economic sciences teams will ensure the organization and accessibility of citizen science information.
