Session 3: Talk 4 - India’s R&D Journey Towards Elimination of Leishmaniasis

Speaker - Dr Hira Nakhasi, Director - Division of Emerging & Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, US FDA Key Takeaways: Leishmaniasis remains a public health concern despite progress towards elimination in India. Changing parasite patterns and regional variations complicate control strategies. No licensed human vaccine is currently available. A live attenuated centrin-deleted Leishmania vaccine has shown strong preclinical efficacy. Demonstrated cross-species protection and effectiveness against sandfly transmission. 80% protection observed in long-term canine field studies. Development of a field-deployable Leishmania Skin Test to aid surveillance and immune monitoring. Elimination will require an integrated approach combining vaccine development, improved diagnostics, strengthened vector control and sustained national and global partnerships.