This fly is the only known vector, so the disease is localized to areas where the fly is able to thrive. The disease is found only in sub-Saharan Africa between latitudes 14 °N and 29 °S within limits of the geographical distribution of the tsetse fly.
The clinical presentation in Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense is more accurate, however, with overt clinical signs and symptoms developing with days following infection; the Trypanosoma brucei gambiense form is chronic, with months and sometimes years elapsing before the appearance of any obvious signs or symptoms.
Upon infections with Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, early symptoms involve fever, swelling of the lymph nodes, headaches, weakness, weight loss and often a rash near the site of inoculation.
African trypanosomiasis is rarely reported outside the continent of Africa where it is endemic. However, world travelers, especially those who go on safari in East Africa, may be bitten by the tsetse fly and develop symptoms after they return to their home countries.
African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness)
