Trypanosomiasis

Trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness, is a parasitic infection that is transmitted by the bite of an infected tsetse fly. It is a major health problem in many tropical and sub-tropical regions of Africa, with an estimated 300,000 to 500,000 cases annually. Symptoms of this infection include fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, and, if left untreated, can lead to serious neurological problems and even death. Treatment is available for this condition and includes drugs, such as suramin and pentamidine, to kill the parasites. Vaccines and vector control measures, such as insecticide spraying, are also being used to help reduce the spread of this infectious disease.