Quintana Roo Leads Mexico in Leishmaniasis Cases With 245 of 382 Nationwide

Close-up of a sandfly mosquito on human skin, vector of leishmaniasis

Bacalar, Quintana Roo — Quintana Roo has the highest number of confirmed leishmaniasis cases in Mexico, with 245 of the 382 cases reported nationwide, according to the latest Epidemiological Bulletin from the Ministry of Health.

The state accounts for nearly 64% of all cases in the country. It is followed by Tabasco with 69 cases, Campeche with 35, and Yucatán with 22.

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by the bite of the sandfly, also known as the chiclero fly. It is not spread from person to person and can cause skin lesions or ulcers that take time to heal; in more severe cases, it can also affect internal organs.

Health officials recommend using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing when entering forest or jungle areas, and keeping the surroundings of homes clean to reduce the presence of insects. They also urge the public to seek medical attention if any symptoms appear and to avoid self-medication.

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By Ana Reyes

Ana Reyes covers environmental policy, conservation initiatives, infrastructure projects, and political developments across the Yucatán Peninsula for Riviera Maya News & Events. She reports on issues from sargassum management and reef conservation to the Maya Train, coastal development, and state and federal policy affecting Quintana Roo and the broader peninsula.Ana has covered environmental and political news since 2023, tracking key developments in Mexico's environmental regulations, coral reef protection, coastal zone management, and the intersection of tourism development with conservation efforts. Her reporting spans from Cancun's hotel zone to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and the culturally significant regions of the Yucatán interior.Ana is fluent in English and Spanish, and draws from a wide range of sources including government environmental agencies, conservation organizations, academic researchers, and local community leaders to provide balanced, well-sourced coverage. She is particularly focused on how environmental policy decisions affect the daily lives of residents and the long-term sustainability of the region.For story tips: ana@rivieramayanews.mx