Study of seasonal variation in sandfly  species found in Bihar with respect to  Kala–azar in India

Dr. Ragini Mishra; Prashant Kumar; P. Nath; Dr. Dhrub Kumar Singh

Volume : II, Issue : I, January - 2013

Study of seasonal variation in sandfly species found in Bihar with respect to Kala–azar in India

Dr. Ragini Mishra, Prashant Kumar, P. Nath, Dr. Dhrub Kumar Singh

Abstract :

Kala-azar i.e. Visceral Leishmaniasis is a dreaded disease caused by Leishmania donovani and transmitted by vector sandflies Phlebotomus argentipes. Kala-azar is now a global problem and as per WHO about 1/3rd cases are reported from Bihar itself. Over 700 species are found worldwide and around 46 species of sandflies are found in Bihar. Out of 46 species only 3 species have been found dominantly in Bihar viz. P.argentipes, P.papatasi and Sergentomiya babu. Uptill now, the control programmes against this vector has not achieved a complete success because of lack of knowledge of endemic foci of the sandflies. Study of seasonal variation in sandflies may help to recognize the correct time for the spray and other control programme.