Leishmaniasis and Soldiers in Mosul

MOSUL, IRAQ

04.27.2006

Courtesy Story

345th Public Affairs Detachment

MOSUL, Iraq - Leishmaniasis, a sand fly parasite that could have drastic effects on Soldiers at the Forward Operating Bases in the Mosul, Iraq region, but can be prevented with proper procedures prescribed by local Medcoms.

Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by the protozoa of the leishmania species, which is transmitted by the bite of a female sand fly.

"Although there is a concern, the parasite is not very common in this area, but as a preventive measure Soldiers are provided with the abilities to protect themselves with personal and uniform repellants," said Cpt. Robert Hilliman, 793rd Medical Detachment, 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team.

According to Hilliman, Soldiers should check exposed areas frequently after going outside unprotected for long periods and gave information as what to look for to recognize a possible infection.

"It usually starts as a small red bump, so it doesn't alarm the person," Hilliman said. "Then the bump gets bigger and develops an ulcer inside of it."

Hilliman said the individual usually gets concerned at that time and seeks medical attention. Unfortunately, a reaction can occur right away or could take three to five months to develop.

"I have not seen any cases since being in Iraq or in the Mosul region," Hilliman said. "I am aware of some cases of leishmaniasis in Mosul, but they are more common in the sandier regions."

"Soldiers who don't use deet or other repellants are more susceptible to getting infected," said Spc. John Adey, 573rd MD, Company B, 101st Sustainment Brigade. "When you go out on missions or are outside at dusk or dawn, put bug spray on because the sand flies attack exposed areas of skin, like your neck, hands, and head." Adey is a native of Minot, N.D.

"They are almost like the size of a gnat, but only the female sand flies carry the parasite that can cause the ailment," said Spc. John Waldrop, 573rd MD, Co. B.,101st Sustainment Bde., and native of Dallas, Texas.

Waldrop said the only thing that can be done for treating the infection is to apply antibiotic on the infection, keep it covered and give it time to heal, which could take as long as three months.

According to an Iraqi Medical Expert, he has not seen any cases in the Mosul region on an American Soldier, but has seen the infection about four months ago on a local Iraqi national that lives in the countryside.

"The virus parasite is more likely to be found in middle and southern areas of Iraq and on the eastern side near the Iranian border," the medical expert said.

Hilliman said that if you suspect that you may be infected, seek the nearest medical facility as soon as possible.

For more information regarding leishmaniasis, you can contact the 793rd Medical Detachment at DSN 536-7930 located on FOB Diamondback, Mosul, Iraq.

• Date Taken: 04.27.2006
• Date Posted: 04.27.2006 14:06
• Story ID: 6144
• Location: MOSUL, IQ