What Is African Trypanosomiasis (Also Known As Sleeping Sickness, Caused by the Tsetse Fly Bite)

African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness, is a parasitic infection caused by the tsetse fly bite. The disease is endemic to 36 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, where it affects mainly rural populations. There are two types of African trypanosomiasis: the acute form, caused by the Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense parasite, and the chronic form, caused by the Trypanosoma brucei gambiense parasite.

Symptoms of the acute form can appear within weeks or even days after infection and include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes. As the disease progresses, it can cause neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and difficulty walking and talking.

The chronic form progresses more slowly and can take months or even years to develop symptoms. Early symptoms include fever, headache, and joint pain, followed by neurological symptoms such as sleep disturbances, personality changes, and difficulty walking.

Both forms of the disease can be fatal if left untreated. Treatment options include medications that can kill the parasite, but early diagnosis is key to successful treatment.

Prevention methods include wearing protective clothing when in areas with high tsetse fly populations, using insect repellent, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak biting times. Additionally, efforts to control the tsetse fly population, such as clearing brush and using insecticides, can help reduce the risk of infection.

If you are traveling to areas where African trypanosomiasis is endemic, it is important to take precautions and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms.

By Alexander Brosda, CEO Sokörpe Laboratories

Life cycle image and information courtesy of DPDx