Hiding in plain sight: A call to prevent cutaneous leishmaniasis transmission in the United States.

Abstract

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), once considered a travel-associated tropical disease, is increasingly transmitted within the United States, particularly in southern regions. Despite mounting evidence of local transmission, public health recognition and preventive infrastructure remain limited. This Viewpoint highlights the urgent need to shift the U.S. CL response from questioning endemicity to preventing transmission. We review ecological, clinical, and surveillance data demonstrating the presence of competent vectors, animal reservoirs, and autochthonous human cases. Diagnostic delays, underreporting, and insufficient provider training contribute to missed prevention opportunities. Climate change and peri-urban rodent-human contact data further heighten future risk. A coordinated response is essential, including national notifiability, expanded diagnostics, integrated vector and reservoir surveillance, clinical education, and One Health-focused research. Without immediate action, CL risks becoming an entrenched, neglected zoonosis in the United States.