2. HEALTH ENVIRONMENTAL AND
ECOLOGY GROUP ASSIGNMENT
No Names of students ID.no
1 ENDESHAW BUTA 1402665
2 EMYE ABOSEMUGN 1402662
3 FIKADU SHEWA 1402730
4 FENTAHUN ANMAW 1402709
5 YEWALASHET NIGUSSIE 1403116
6 GETABALEW YISMAW 1402763
7 HIWOT JEJAW 1401408
8 FRESENBET DANEIL 1401279
9 REDIET DERTEBE 1402206
10 MAHREW EWNETIE 1401658
SUBMITTED TO: INSTRUCTOR ASMAMAW ABERA (MSc, PhD Candidate)
Submission date: 28/03/2016E.C
Debre-Birhan, Ethiopia
3. OBJECTIVES
• BY THE COMPLETION OF THIS LESSION ALL
GROUP MEMBERS HAVE TO KNOW
• Explain about sand fly
• Knowing the importance of public health to sand
fly
• Brief about sand fly borne disease and climate
change
• Explain the status of sand fly borne disease in
Ethiopia
• Describe the control method of sand fly
4. INTRODUCTION TO SAND FLY
• Sand flies is tiny, pesky insects belong to the family psychodidae
and are known for their blood-sucking habits, especially in sandy
areas and near bodies of water. Let's dive into an introduction to
these fascinating (and often annoying) creatures.
1. Appearance: Sand flies are quite small, usually measuring only a
few millimeters in length. They have hairy bodies and wings, which
give them a moth-like appearance. Despite their diminutive size,
their bites can pack quite a punch!
2. Habitat: Sand flies are commonly found in tropical and
subtropical regions around the world. They are particularly
prevalent in coastal areas, marshes, and other locations with sandy,
moist substrates, hence the name "sand" flies.
5. CONT…………..
• 3. Biology and Behavior: These little critters are most active during the
dawn and dusk, preferring the cooler temperatures for their blood meals.
Unlike mosquitoes, only the female sand flies require blood to develop
their eggs, hence their penchant for biting humans and animals.
• 4. Disease Transmission: One of the more concerning aspects of sand flies
is their role as vectors for various diseases. The most notorious of these is
leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease caused by the Leishmania parasite and
transmitted through the bites of infected sand flies. There are different
forms of leishmaniasis, ranging from skin ulcers to more severe visceral
and mucocutaneous manifestations.
5. Prevention and Control: Given their potential role in disease
transmission, it's essential to take measures to prevent sand fly bites,
particularly in endemic areas. This may involve using insect repellents,
wearing long sleeves and pants, and sleeping under bed nets in affected
regions.
Understanding the biology and habits of sand flies is crucial for public
health and epidemiology, especially in regions where they pose a
significant risk to human and animal health.
6. PUBLIC HEALTH IMPORTANCE
OF SAND FLY
• The public health importance of sand flies is definitely something worth
discussing!
1. Disease Transmission: As I mentioned earlier, sand flies can transmit
several pathogens that cause diseases in humans and animals. The most
significant of these diseases is leishmaniasis, which affects millions of people
worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Visceral
leishmaniasis (also known as kala-azar) and cutaneous leishmaniasis are the
most common forms of the disease. In some endemic areas, the urden
leishmaniasis can be quite substantial, leading to severe illness and even
death if left untreated.
2. Impact on Quality of Life: In addition to the direct health consequences of
leishmaniasis and other sand fly-transmitted diseases, the presence of sand
flies can significantly impact the quality of life in affected communities. The
discomfort and risk of disease associated with sand fly bites can limit outdoor
activities, affect local economies that rely on tourism, and lead to
psychological stress among those constantly exposed to the nuisance and
threat of sand fly bites.
7. CONT……..
• 3. Challenges in Control: Controlling sand fly populations and reducing the risk of
disease transmission poses significant challenges. Traditional vector control
methods, such as insecticide spraying, can be effective but may also have
environmental and public health repercussions. Moreover, the complex ecology of
sand flies, including their diverse habitats and behavior, adds to the difficulty of
implementing sustainable control measures.
4. Research and Surveillance: Given the public health importance of sand flies,
ongoing research is critical for understanding their biology, the epidemiology of
associated diseases, and developing effective control strategies. Surveillance
efforts to monitor sand fly populations, disease prevalence, and the emergence of
drug resistance are essential for guiding public health interventions and
minimizing the impact of sand fly-transmitted diseases.
5. Community Education and Engagement: Public health programs aimed at
raising awareness about sand fly-transmitted diseases, promoting personal
protective measures, and engaging communities in vector control efforts are
crucial for reducing the burden of these diseases. Empowering individuals and
communities with information and resources can contribute to mitigating the
public health impact of sand flies.
Understanding the public health importance of sand flies underscores the need for
integrated, multidisciplinary approaches to address the challenges posed by these
tiny yet significant vectors.
8. SAND FLY BORNE DISEASE AND
CLIMATE CHANGE
• Sand fly-borne diseases are a group of illnesses caused by
pathogens transmitted to humans through the bites of infected
sand fly species. The most notable sand fly-borne diseases include
leishmaniasis and sand fly fever.
• Leishmaniasis; is caused by protozoan parasites of the Leishmania
genus and is primarily transmitted by the bite of infected female
phlebotomine sand flies.
• There are three main forms of leishmaniasis
• Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL): In this severe form of the disease, the
parasites invade the internal organs, leading to symptoms such as
fever, weight loss, and an enlarged spleen and liver.
• Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL): This form affects the skin, causing
skin lesions and ulcers.
• Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis (ML): This rarer form can cause
damage to the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, and throat
9. CONT………………….
• Sand fly fever, also known as pappataci fever or phlebotomus fever, is caused by
several phleboviruses and is characterized by flu-like symptoms such as fever,
muscle pain, and headache. It is commonly found in the Mediterranean, Asia, and
South and Central America.
Geographic Distribution
These diseases are prevalent in various regions across the globe, particularly in
tropical and subtropical areas. They can have a significant impact on public health,
especially in communities with limited access to healthcare and poor living
conditions.
Prevention
Preventive measures primarily focus on reducing exposure to sand flies. This
includes using insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and sleeping under
bed nets. Vector control measures, such as insecticide spraying and environmental
management, also play a crucial role in preventing the transmission of these
diseases.
Conclusion
Sand fly-borne diseases pose a significant health threat in many parts of the world,
impacting the quality of life for affected individuals and communities. Ongoing
research, public health efforts, and international collaboration are essential in
addressing these diseases and reducing their burden on public health.
10. Climate change…
• Climate change; can have significant implications for the
distribution and prevalence of sand fly-borne diseases. As
temperatures and weather patterns shift, the habitats of sand flies
can expand, contract, or move to new areas. This can potentially
lead to the spread of sand fly-borne diseases into regions where
they were previously uncommon or absent.
Warming temperatures can create more favorable conditions for
sand fly breeding and survival, potentially extending the seasonal
activity of sand flies. Additionally, changes in precipitation patterns
can impact the availability of breeding sites for sand flies, altering
the ecology of these disease vectors.
Furthermore, as climate change influences the movement of
human populations and can impact the migration patterns of
animals that serve as reservoir hosts for the parasites carried by
sand flies, it can contribute to the spread of these diseases to new
areas.
11. CONT……………
• The interplay between climate change, ecological factors,
and the spread of sand fly-borne diseases is an important
area of research and public health concern. Understanding
and predicting how climate change may influence the
geographic distribution and epidemiology of these diseases
is crucial for implementing effective prevention and control
measures.
Efforts to mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts
can play a role in addressing the potential spread of sand
fly-borne diseases. Additionally, public health strategies
that account for changing disease dynamics and emphasize
surveillance, early detection, and appropriate intervention
can help mitigate the effects of climate change on the
spread of these diseases.
12. SAND FLY BORNE DISEASE
STATUS IN ETHIOPIA
• Sand fly-borne diseases are indeed an important public health
concern in many regions, including Ethiopia. One of the most
significant diseases transmitted by sand flies is leishmaniasis. In
Ethiopia, visceral leishmaniasis (VL), which is also known as kala-
azar, and cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) are the two main forms of
leishmaniasis prevalent in different parts of the country.
Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL)
Visceral leishmaniasis is the more severe form, affecting internal
organs such as the spleen, liver, and bone marrow. In Ethiopia, VL is
prevalent in the lowland areas of the country, particularly in the
northern and western parts. The disease is often associated with
poverty, malnutrition, and weakened immune systems.
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL)
Cutaneous leishmaniasis, on the other hand, affects the skin and
can lead to disfiguring lesions. It is found in different parts of
Ethiopia, with varying levels of prevalence.
13. CONT………………………..
Control and Prevention Efforts
The Ethiopian government, in collaboration with
international organizations such as WHO and CDC, has
been implementing various control and prevention
measures. These include insecticide spraying, distribution
of insecticide-treated bed nets, community health
education, and case management.
Research and Surveillance
Research efforts are also ongoing to understand the
epidemiology of leishmaniasis in Ethiopia, including the
distribution of sand fly species responsible for
transmission. Surveillance systems are in place to monitor
the prevalence and incidence of the disease.
14. Conclusion
• In Ethiopia, sand fly-borne diseases, particularly leishmaniasis, are a significant
public health concern. The country is known to have high rates of visceral
leishmaniasis (also known as kala-azar) and cutaneous leishmaniasis, with an
estimated 4,000 to 5,000 new cases reported each year.
The distribution of sand flies in Ethiopia is influenced by various factors, including
climate, environmental changes, and human activities. As the climate changes,
there is a potential for the geographical range of sand flies to expand, leading to
an increased risk of disease transmission in previously unaffected areas.
Efforts to control sand fly-borne diseases in Ethiopia include vector control
measures, such as indoor residual spraying and environmental management to
reduce sand fly breeding sites. Additionally, public health education and
community engagement are important components of disease prevention and
control efforts.
Research into vaccines and treatments for leishmaniasis is ongoing, and there is a
need for continued investment in this area to develop effective tools for disease
control.
Overall, addressing the impact of climate change on sand fly-borne diseases in
Ethiopia requires a multi-faceted approach that includes surveillance, vector
control, public health education, and research into new interventions.
15. SAND FLY CONTROL METHOD
• There are several effective methods for controlling sand
flies. Here are some commonly used techniques:
1. Environmental modifications: Sand flies thrive in humid
and shaded areas. Clearing vegetation, trimming shrubs,
and removing decaying organic matter can help reduce
their breeding sites. Additionally, improving drainage and
proper waste management can minimize their habitat.
2. Insect repellents: Applying insect repellents on exposed
skin can provide protection against sand fly bites. Look for
repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus
oil, as they are effective against sand flies.
3. Protective clothing: Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long
pants, and socks can create a physical barrier between your
skin and sand flies. Light-colored clothing is preferable, as it
may deter sand flies from landing.
16. CONT……………………
• 4. Bed nets: When sleeping or resting indoors, using
bed nets treated with insecticides can provide
protection against sand fly bites. Ensure that the nets
are properly tucked in and free of any holes.
5. Indoor insecticides: Using indoor residual sprays or
aerosol insecticides can help eliminate sand flies
present indoors. Target areas where sand flies rest,
such as walls, ceilings, and dark corners. Follow the
instructions on the product carefully.
6. Outdoor insecticides: Applying insecticides to
outdoor areas, such as vegetation, walls, and resting
places, can help reduce sand fly populations. Use
insecticides approved for outdoor use and follow the
instructions provided.
17. CONT………………………
• 7. Biological control: Introducing natural
predators of sand flies, such as certain species of
spiders, can help control their population.
Consult with local authorities or pest control
experts for suitable biological control methods.
Remember, it's important to combine multiple
control methods for better effectiveness. If you're
experiencing a significant sand fly problem, it
may be advisable to consult with local health
authorities or pest control professionals for
specific recommendations tailored to your area.
18. REFERENCE
• 1. Killick-Kendrick, R. (1999). The biology and
control of phlebotomine sand flies. Clinics in
Dermatology, 17(3), 279-289.
• 2. Ready, P. D. (2013). Biology of phlebotomine
sand flies as vectors of disease agents. Annual
Review of Entomology, 58, 227-250.
3. Alvar, J., Vélez, I. D., Bern, C., Herrero, M.,
Desjeux, P., Cano, J., ... & Boer, M. D. (2012).
Leishmaniasis worldwide and global estimates of
its incidence. PLOS ONE, 7(5), e35671.
