infectious diseases

African trypanosomiasis in domestic and wild animals

Trypanosomes, in addition to causing sleep sickness in humans, are also pathogenic for wild and domestic animals (cattle, pigs, etc.), which act as a reservoir for the infection.

Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, in particular, is responsible for a zoonosis that affects various species of mammals, such as antelopes and gazelles, which inhabit the savannahs and natural parks of central-eastern Africa. These animals usually present a subclinical infection. The same parasite can occasionally be transmitted to humans when it comes into contact with the tsetse fly.

The risk of contracting the rodesiense variant is greater for people who live or work in endemic areas. Infection in tourists is rare, but it cannot be ruled out in those who visit rural areas and take part in safaris.

Tripanosomiasis affecting livestock (also known as " nagana ", a Zulu term meaning "to be depressed") is one of the main obstacles to the economic development of affected rural areas.