Distribuição espacial da leishmaniose humana e canina em Itaberaba-BA (2018 a 2020): vulnerabilidades e estratégias de controle

Abstract

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an endemic zoonosis of high public health importance in Brazil, especially in the Northeast region. This study conducted a retrospective analysis of the occurrence and spatial distribution of human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL) and canine leishmaniasis (CanL) cases in the municipality of Itaberaba, Bahia, between 2018 and 2020. Epidemiological data were obtained from the local epidemiological surveillance system and subjected to spatial analysis using QGIS software, employing Kernel density estimation and cluster identification through SaTScan software. During the study period, 773 dogs were included in the analyses, of which 8.8% tested positive for CanL, with annual variation ranging from 5.6% (2018) to 13% (2019). Spatial analysis indicated the presence of risk clusters in peripheral areas characterized by poor sanitation and high social vulnerability. Although human cases were sporadic, they were concentrated among young individuals and showed a similar distribution between urban and rural areas. No spatial overlap was observed between canine and human cases; however, canine cases were located near human cases. The main limitations identified included incomplete data recording, losses in confirmatory diagnosis (ELISA), limited surveillance actions in rural areas, and delays in laboratory workflows. The findings reinforce the importance of integrated and territorially focused surveillance strategies, including the systematic use of geoprocessing tools, strengthening field actions, and community awareness, aiming to reduce transmission and improve institutional response to VL.