Presence of Lutzomyia genus (Díptera: psychodidae: phlebotominae) in historical foci of Bartonellosis in Nariño – Colombia Presencia del género Lutzomyia (Díptera Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) en focos históricos de Bartonelosis en el Departamento de Nariño-Colombia

Abstract

Entomological inventories of insects of the subfamily Phlebotominae related to the transmission of pathogens such as Leishmania spp., and Bartonella bacilliformis, are important because their presence symbolizes a potential infection resurgence of these two tropical diseases in areas with epidemiological history. Between 2011 and 2012, it was explored the presence of phlebotomines in municipalities like: Sandoná, Consacá, La Unión, Linares, Guaitarilla and Samaniego, in Nariño, Colombia. 710 specimens of the genre Lutzomyiawere  collected, using CDC light traps, Shannon traps, and active search in resting places.  Lutzomyia columbiana was collected in greater abundance (n = 699, 98.45%) in the Andean valleys of Nariño, while Lu. rosabali and Lu. osornoi have less representation. The results reaffirm the movement circulation and presence of Lutzomyia columbiana, potentially associated with the historical transmission of Bartonellosis and the sporadic occurrence of leishmaniasis in Nariño. Natural infection studies are required to determine the role of Lutzomyia columbiana as a vector.