Epidemiology and control of trypanosomosis

Tsetse-transmitted trypanosomosis remains a major constraint to the development of agriculture, particularly to that of livestock production in sub-Saharan Africa. It is estimated that 10 million km2 of Africa are tsetse infested, exposing some 50 million people and 60 million cattle to the risk of trypanosomosis. The epidemiology of the disease is complex and is greatly influenced by management and farming practices. The different control strategies are reviewed and their comparative advantages assessed. It is concluded that eradication of tsetse flies, while desirable, is rarely achieved. It is perhaps more realistic to aim for disease suppression, with vector-control campaigns linked to sustainable land-use programmes. Nevertheless, progressive tsetse eradication remains the long-term goal.