No longer on a ‘leish’: the risk of 𝘓𝘦𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘢 in the UK

Leishmania are vector-borne protozoan parasites capable of causing a wide range of clinical disease (leishmaniosis). Leishmania infantum is the main species causing leishmaniosis in European cats and dogs and has zoonotic potential. Sandflies are the principal vector of transmission, but a range of non-vectorial routes makes the possibility of infection being transmitted between dogs in the UK a reality. This session will consider possible routes of transmission, diagnostic tools available and the importance of screening dogs with relevant history to improve prognosis and prevent further spread. The zoonotic risk from Leishmania in the UK will also be considered.