[The spread of Phlebotomus papatasi Scop., 1786 through the territory of Central Asia and southern Kazakhstan].

The data on distribution of the main vector of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) Phlebotomus papatasi through Central Asia and southern Kazakhstan are presented. The highest indices of density of this species (100 and more specimen per stick trap) were observed only in the Tejen oasis, rather high ones (1-10, 10-100) in the river valleys and at the foothill, and the lowest one (0.01-0.1)--over the desert territory where ZCL was not practically found. Using these data 2 maps were prepared. The first map shows the pattern of Ph. papatasi geographical distribution with the use of a relative density index. This map can be useful for determining ZCL danger in areas where Ph. papatasi occurs. The second indicates sandfly distribution over Karshi steppe territory the where Ph. papatasi density depends on soil moisture. This map can serve as a model for forecasting Ph. papatasi density under anthropogenic influence.