Comparative evaluation of nucleic acid stabilizing reagents for RNA- and DNA-based Leishmania detection in blood as proxy for visceral burdens

•Blood sample stabilization enables downstream detection of Leishmania kDNA and SL-RNA.•SL-RNA is detected with lower threshold (cT) values than an established kDNA assay.•RNA protect cell reagent provided optimal simultaneous DNA and RNA stabilization.•DNA/RNA shield provides a good alternative if sample storage at 4 °C is available.•Parasite levels in peripheral blood correlate relatively well with hepatic burdens.