Authors : Weerakkodi W. G. I. S.; Prathapasinghe ID; Karunarathna T. P.; Kodithuwakku K. D. C.; Hettiarachchi J.; Weerakoon S. N.

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 4 - April

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/bp9pcwwp

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/mt2v57jt

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26apr2470

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Abstract : Background: Leishmaniasis, transmitted by female Phlebotomussandflies, poses a growing threat in South Asia, including Sri Lanka, where cutaneous forms predominate and Ph. argentipesis the primary vector. Despite rising incidence in hotspots like Matale District, gaps persist in vector ecology, density, seasonality, behavior, and surveillance efficiency hindering targeted control. Comparative trap evaluations are essential to optimize monitoring amid behavioral heterogeneity. Methods: From August 2024 to December 2025, a longitudinal survey was conducted monthly in leishmaniasis-endemic peridomestic sites in Kandalama area, Matale District, Sri Lanka. Seven methods were deployed: cattle-baited traps (CBTC), light traps (LT), sticky traps (ST), indoor/outdoor hand collections, indoor double-net traps, and outdoor doublenet traps. Female sandflies were morphologically identified to genus (Phlebotomus vs. Sergentomyia). Negative binomial GLMMs (glmmTMB) assessed trap efficiency yielding incidence rate ratios (IRRs). Results: Of 3,686 females collected, Phlebotomus spp. comprised 79.5% (n=2,929), peaking in CBTC (1,366; 46.6%). Sergentomyia spp. (20.5%; n=757) favored indoor hand collections (213; 28.1%). CBTC excelled (mean 952/effort; ref.), outperforming others (e.g., ST IRR=0.0016 [95%CI 0.0006–0.004]; LT mean=265 [121–583]; all p<0.001). Sergentomyia showed lower abundance (IRR=0.26–0.36; p<0.002). Phlebotomus exhibited pronounced late-year peaks. Conclusions: CBTC is optimal for Ph. argentipes-focused surveillance in livestock settings, capturing genus biases and seasonality critical for leishmaniasis early warning. Integrating such data refines risk models, informing interventions in tropical hotspots.

Keywords : Phlebotomus Spp., Sandfly Surveillance, Cattle-Baited Trap, Trap Efficiency.

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