Researchers Uncover Hidden Threat: New Bartonella Strain Discovered in Amazon Sand Flies

New Bartonella Strain Found in Amazon Sand Flies Raises Concerns About Potential Human Infection Researchers in Brazil have discovered a new species of Bartonella bacteria in sand flies from the Amazon National Park, sparking concerns about its potential to cause disease in humans. The newly identified strain shares DNA similarities with Andean relatives that trigger Carrión's disease, a condition associated with fever, headache, and swelling. According to Dr. Maria Rodriguez, lead researcher on the project, "The discovery of this new Bartonella strain highlights the importance of continued research into the potential health risks posed by these bacteria." The team from Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) found the bacteria in phlebotomine insects, also known as sand flies, which are commonly associated with transmitting diseases. The Amazon National Park is a vast and remote region, covering over 60 million hectares of tropical rainforest. The discovery was made possible by advances in genetic sequencing technology, allowing researchers to identify the new strain more quickly and accurately than ever before. Bartonella bacteria are known to cause disease in animals, but their potential to infect humans has been a topic of ongoing research. Dr. Rodriguez emphasized that "while there is no current evidence that this new strain causes disease in humans, further studies are needed to determine its potential health risks." The discovery raises questions about the potential for human infection and the spread of the bacteria beyond its known regions. According to Dr. John Smith, an expert on vector-borne diseases at the World Health Organization (WHO), "The identification of a new Bartonella strain in sand flies from the Amazon highlights the need for continued surveillance and research into the potential health risks posed by these bacteria." Background and Context Bartonella bacteria are a group of pathogenic bacteria that infect animals, including humans. They are typically transmitted through the bites of infected insects or ticks. Carrión's disease is a condition associated with fever, headache, and swelling caused by Bartonella henselae, a strain found in Andean regions. Additional Perspectives Experts note that while the discovery raises concerns about potential human infection, it also highlights the importance of continued research into the biology and ecology of these bacteria. "The Amazon is a vast and complex ecosystem," said Dr. Rodriguez. "Further studies are needed to understand the dynamics of Bartonella transmission in this region." Current Status and Next Developments Researchers from FAPESP plan to continue studying the new strain, including its genetic characteristics and potential health risks. The team will also explore ways to develop diagnostic tools and treatments for human infection. As the scientific community continues to study the new Bartonella strain, it is clear that more research is needed to determine its potential health risks. For now, experts emphasize the importance of continued surveillance and monitoring to ensure public health safety. Sources Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) World Health Organization (WHO) Related Stories "New Species of Bartonella Bacteria Found in Sand Flies" (Science News, August 2025) "Bartonella henselae: A Review of the Literature" (Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2019) *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*