Visceral Leishmaniasis Threatens Tourists: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Italy, Spain, Greece, China, or India

Thursday, March 26, 2026

The Government of Canada has issued an urgent travel advisory for popular tourist destinations, including Italy, Spain, Greece, China, and India, due to the rising health risk of visceral leishmaniasis. This potentially life-threatening disease, transmitted through sandfly bites, has led to heightened concerns for Canadian travelers visiting these regions. The advisory stresses the importance of taking precautionary measures to protect oneself from this rare but serious illness, which can have severe health consequences if left untreated.

The update serves as a crucial reminder for Canadians planning travel to these countries to stay informed and take the necessary steps to minimize the risks associated with the disease.

What is Visceral Leishmaniasis?

Visceral leishmaniasis, also known as Kala-azar, is a parasitic disease caused by the Leishmania parasite and transmitted primarily by the bite of infected sandflies. The disease is considered the most severe form of leishmaniasis and affects vital organs such as the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. If not treated promptly, it can be fatal. Early symptoms include persistent fever, significant weight loss, an enlarged spleen or liver, and anemia.

While other forms of leishmaniasis, such as cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, affect the skin and mucous membranes, visceral leishmaniasis is more dangerous due to its impact on internal organs. With no vaccine available to prevent the disease, travelers are encouraged to take preventive measures to avoid sandfly bites, especially in areas where the disease is prevalent.

Countries Under Canada’s Updated Advisory

Canada’s travel advisory specifically targets several high-risk destinations known for the presence of sandflies that transmit visceral leishmaniasis. Tourists planning to visit these regions are strongly advised to take precautions to reduce their risk of contracting the disease.

Italy
Italy is renowned for its history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, making it one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. However, the southern regions of Italy, including Sicily, have been flagged due to the presence of sandflies carrying the Leishmania parasite. Visitors exploring rural or coastal areas should take extra precautions, especially during the evening and night, when sandflies are most active.

Spain
In Spain, both rural and urban areas present a risk of exposure to sandflies, particularly in regions with sandy or dust-prone environments. Tourists are advised to avoid outdoor activities during the night and to stay in accommodations that offer protection against sandflies, such as rooms with air conditioning or screens. This precaution is especially important along Spain’s coastal regions and in popular cities.

Greece
Greece, famous for its Mediterranean beauty and rich cultural heritage, attracts millions of visitors each year. However, rural and coastal areas of Greece, particularly in regions with higher humidity, have an elevated risk of sandfly bites. Visitors should be aware of the symptoms of visceral leishmaniasis and take preventive measures when visiting high-risk areas.

China
China remains one of the most visited countries in Asia, known for its vast landscapes and cultural diversity. However, areas in the western and southern parts of the country have been identified as having a higher prevalence of visceral leishmaniasis, particularly in rural areas. Travelers planning to visit these regions should exercise caution and take appropriate steps to protect themselves from sandfly bites.

India
India is a top global tourist destination, famous for its vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty. However, certain states in northern and eastern India, such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, have a higher incidence of visceral leishmaniasis. Rural regions with poor sanitation are particularly at risk, and travelers are urged to take extra care when visiting these areas.

Preventive Measures for Travelers

To reduce the risk of contracting visceral leishmaniasis, travelers should follow these key preventive measures:

Avoid Outdoor Activities at Night: Sandflies are most active during dusk and dawn. Travelers should limit outdoor exposure during these hours to minimize the risk of being bitten.
Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin and clothing. Reapply the repellent regularly, especially after sweating or swimming.
Wear Protective Clothing: To reduce the risk of bites, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes. Light-colored clothing is recommended, as it is less attractive to sandflies.
Stay in Protected Accommodations: When staying in accommodations, ensure rooms are equipped with screens or air conditioning. If staying in rural areas, sleep under treated bed nets to prevent sandfly bites.
Camp Safely: If camping, avoid setting up tents near animal burrows or areas known to have high sandfly populations. Animals like dogs can be carriers of the parasite.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with health advisories from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding leishmaniasis outbreaks.

What to Do if Symptoms Appear

If travelers experience symptoms of visceral leishmaniasis, such as fever, unexplained weight loss, swollen liver or spleen, and anemia, they should seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in preventing the disease from becoming fatal. There are effective treatments available that can manage the disease if caught early.

Conclusion

Canada’s updated travel advisory for Italy, Spain, Greece, China, and India serves as a crucial warning to tourists about the health risks posed by visceral leishmaniasis. By following the recommended precautions and staying informed about the disease, travelers can reduce their risk while enjoying their trips abroad. It’s important to remember that even popular tourist destinations can have unforeseen health risks, and taking the necessary steps to stay safe is vital for a worry-free travel experience.

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