Leishmaniasis

[centerpoint]

I had a great time on a cruise that stopped in Progreso. I write this to everyone to make sure they put insect repellent with DEET on, so they don't get what I brought back with me. Just google "leishmaniasis," and you can see what I'm putting up with right now.

 

It's like a very bad case of poison ivy on my left bicep and forearm. Don't know if I got it in Mobile, the Holiday, or Progreso. Most likely Progreso - the CDC calls it "endemic" in parts of the Yucatan state.

[WilliamLawson]

Sorry to hear of your affliction! Is it bad? Did anyone else on your cruise get it? If it's on your forearm, and the disease apparently is transmitted by sand flies which fly low on the beach, was anyone else lying on the beach near you who also got it?

[centerpoint]

Well, like I said - it feels like poison ivy. I got treatment fairly quickly, because I've travelled with the US Gov't in the area before, and I knew what I was looking at before it got really bad.

 

My wife was with me, but was unaffected.

 

For everyone's peace of mind, this could have been easily prevented had I prepared myself with DEET based bug spray. I knew that, but didn't do it.

[sagj5052]

Thanks for this information I have already purchased my deet included spray I wouldn't have thought about until your thread thanks again

[centerpoint]

I didn't think about it, because it was January - but I should have.

 

Update: completely gone, but there is a slight shadow on my skin where it was that will also be gone in a few weeks