Binational burden of American cutaneous leishmaniasis in oiapoque, Amapá State, Brazil, bordering french Guiana

Abstract

Introduction: American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) is regarded as a public health problem in the Oiapoque basin, between Brazil and French Guiana. Methods: Data on ACL occurrence/epidemiological profile and etiology were sourced from Brazilian health services and a reference laboratory. Rainfall correlation was also analyzed. Results: Majority of the ACL cases were observed in adult men working as gold miners. ACL incidence peaks appeared to be linked to periods 2 months after the dry season. Migratory flow was found to be a non-negligible complicating factor in epidemiological surveillance. Conclusions: Binational strategies are required to minimize exposure for high-risk populations.