Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Tigray, Ethiopia: Clinical patterns, environmental drivers and public health implications

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is an underprioritized yet serious public health challenge in Tigray, driven by environmental and behavioral factors. Several forms of the disease (LCL, MCL and DCL) are prevalent in the region, with children and young adults being the most affected. Advocacy for regional recognition of CL, integration of CL control into existing NTD programmes is recommended. Targeted interventions for high-risk groups, enhanced surveillance and mapping, vector and reservoir control measures, community awareness and healthcare capacity and a One Health approach are highly recommended-for sustainable control of CL in Tigray, Ethiopia.