Overview
Kala-azar, or visceral leishmaniasis, is a parasitic disease spread by the bite of tiny sandflies, found mainly in parts of eastern India such as Bihar and Jharkhand. It develops slowly with long-lasting fever, weight loss and an enlarged spleen and liver, and is fatal if left untreated. India runs a programme to eliminate it, and modern medicines cure most people, so recognising a long fever with weight loss in affected areas is important.
Symptoms
- Prolonged, irregular fever lasting weeks
- Marked weight loss and weakness
- Swelling of the belly from an enlarged spleen and liver
- Darkening of the skin in some people
- Anaemia and easy bleeding in advanced disease
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for a fever lasting more than two weeks with weight loss and belly swelling, especially in affected regions — treatment is free under the national programme.
Causes
Leishmania parasites spread by the bite of infected female sandflies, which breed in cracks in mud walls and damp soil.