Seasonal distribution of Phlebotomine sandfly in a vulnerable area for tegumentary leishmaniasis transmission in Córdoba, Argentina

Abstract

Thirty-seven sandfly species are listed for Argentina distributed in 14 provinces and Leishmaniasis cases extend from the north of the country to Unquillo City (Córdoba Province), but potential vectors are found further to the south. This is the first study on diversity, spatial and temporal distribution of sandflies on the outskirts of the temperate Córdoba City, and the factors that influence their presence. Migonemyia migonei, record here for Córdoba City for the first time, and the Evandromyia cortelezzii-sallesi Complex was found, also Ev. cortelezzii males were captured for the first time, these sandflies being more abundant during the warm months due to meteorological factors and the presence of blood meal sources. At least the eastern outskirts of Córdoba City, the second most important city of the country, are at risk of Leishmaniasis transmission if Leishmania spp. enters into the area due to the presence of competent vectors and adequate vertebrate hosts, in a favorable socio-economic context.