Lutzomyia species (Diptera: Psychodidae) possible leishmaniasls vector in the city of Bucaramanga, Santander, Colombia

Abstract

One hundred and twenty five urban cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis have been reported within the city of Bucaramanga in the last five years. This study was carried out to determine the species of Lutzomyia present in the city and their role in public health. The search for sand flies was carried out in eight of the city's zones, from September to December 1996, using CDC light traps and direct aspiration in resting cites and on protected human bait. 212 specimens from eleven Lutzomyia species and one species of Brumptomyia were collected. Amongst the anthropophillic species found, L. ovallesiand L. gomeziare known vectors of L. braziliensis. L. ovallesi had the greatest distribution throughout the city and L. gomezi was the most frequent capture with human bait. Both were found in the dwelllngs frorn which most cases of the disease were reported. The finding of these species in the city suggests the possibility of infection within the urban area and the need to pursue studies to cut the transmission cycle.