Visceral leishmaniasis is sometimes known as systemic leishmaniasis or kala-azar. Kala-azar also is known as black fever or Dumdum fever in Asia. Explore the current status of Kala-Azar in India, its challenges, and initiatives by the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control. Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), also known as kala-azar, is fatal if left untreated in over 95% of cases. It is characterized by irregular bouts of fever, weight loss, enlargement of the spleen and liver, and anaemia. Most cases occur in Brazil, east Africa and India. What is visceral leishmaniasis? Also known as kala-azar, visceral leishmaniasis is a life-threatening disease caused by Leishmania parasites which are transmitted by female sandflies. Visceral leishmaniasis causes fever, weight loss, spleen and liver enlargement, and, if not treated, death. Visceral leishmaniasis has strong links to poverty, taking its heaviest toll on people affected by malnutrition, poor housing, and displacement. People living with HIV who develop visceral leishmaniasis ...
