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Sleeping sickness and the factors affecting it in Botswana
The Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|April 1, 1982
Summary
Sleeping sickness outbreaks in Botswana escalated until 1971, primarily affecting males aged 30-50. Aerial spraying with endosulfan since 1973 has effectively reduced disease incidence.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Tropical Medicine
- Veterinary Public Health
Background:
- Sleeping sickness, caused by tsetse fly-transmitted parasites, has historically plagued Botswana.
- Outbreaks increased in severity from 1934 to 1971, impacting all populated areas near the tsetse fly belt.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the trends, risk factors, and control measures of sleeping sickness in Botswana.
- To understand the epidemiological patterns and identify key drivers of disease prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of sleeping sickness incidence data from 1934 to 1979.
- Correlation of disease outbreaks with environmental factors (rainfall, temperature) and human demographics/behaviors.
- Evaluation of the impact of tsetse control measures, including aerial spraying.
Main Results:
- Infection rates peaked during the hot, wet season, with adult males (30-50 years) being the most affected demographic.
- Disease prevalence varied significantly between tribes and increased in specific areas post-1966.
- Aerial spraying with endosulfan starting in 1973 coincided with a notable decline in sleeping sickness cases.
Conclusions:
- Increased tsetse fly infestation and human population density contributed to rising outbreak severity.
- Human movement patterns, influenced by rainfall and agricultural activities, and cultural factors impact disease transmission.
- Aerial spraying with endosulfan proved effective in controlling and preventing sleeping sickness epidemics.