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Human African trypanosomiasis
HAT or (sleeping sickness)
Human African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness is a parasitic disease transmitted by the bite of the 'Glossina' insect, commonly known as the tsetse fly.
The disease affects mostly poor populations living in remote rural areas of Africa. Untreated, it is usually fatal. Travelers also risk becoming infected if they venture through regions where the insect is common. Generally, the disease is not found in urban areas, although some cases have been reported in suburban areas of Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Luanda, the capital city of Angola.
Symtoms, diagnosis & treatment
Prevalence
In 1995, WHO Expert Committee estimated that 60 million people were at risk with an estimated 300 000 new cases per year in Africa, with fewer than 30,000 cases diagnosed and treated.
In 2004, the number of new reported cases fell to 17 616 and WHO considered in that due to increased control, estimated cumulative rate to be between 50 000 and 70 000 cases .
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"Survival — The Deadliest Disease"
Sleeping Sickness is the deadliest disease in the world. The Democratic Republic of Congo suffers more cases than any other country. Without treatment, parasites kill.
'The Deadliest Disease' - A documentary (streaming)
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