The World Health Organization is appealing for money to tackle the world's largest single epidemic of cutaneous leishmaniasis, which is now under way in Afghanistan. Between 50% and 75% of leishmaniasis infections involve the skin. The lesions, which may number more than 200, cause serious disability and leave the patient permanently scarred. Visceral leishmaniasis (kala azar) is the most severe form and is always fatal if untreated. There is also a mucosal form involving the nose, throat and mouth. In Kabul alone an estimated 200 000 people are believed to have the parasitic disease, which is endemic in 88 countries on 5 continents; there are as many as 2 million new cases a year. Coinfection with HIV, which is considered extremely serious, is becoming more common. The prevention of sandfly bites is considered the key to eliminating the illness. WHO, together with the Afghan government and some international groups, is seeking US$1.2 million to bring the outbreak under control there. Planned measures include the use of drugs and insecticide-impregnated bednets, and better health education. (www.who.int /inf). — CMAJ