Medical App & Medical Advice with Hello Doctor

Sick and tired of being sick and tired

Collapsing on your bed after a hard day at work – there’s nothing better, right? Well, people living in certain areas of Africa are going to disagree with you. Why? You’ll be surprised. We introduce you to the African menace, the Tsetse fly.

The Tsetse wh…?

These aren’t those irritating guys that ‘magically’ appear the second you have some food. This little African resident is known as the Tsetse fly – finding a way to swat this one away is the least of your worries.

The Tsetse fly is a parasite and transmits a disease called African Sleeping Sickness, which carries a variety of unpleasant symptoms, and can be fatal. Kenya and Zambia are high-risk countries and must take precautions – whether you’re local resident or a tourist.
Make sure that you keep clear of any shrubbery and bushes because studies show that this is where the majority of Tsetse flies breed, and hide.

So, how can I prevent myself from getting it?

Unfortunately, there’s no drug or vaccine available to cure African Sleeping Sickness and so your best chance is prevention, and here’s how you do it:

  • Make sure you have insect repellent handy
  • Cover up as much of your body as possible so that exposed skin is kept to a minimum. Instead of colourful clothing, rather wear neutral coloured long-sleeve shirts and pants that blend in with the environment. This is because tsetse flies are attracted to bright colours.
  • Always check your vehicle before you get inside. Tsetse flies will also zone in on the movement of the car as well as the dust that becomes air-borne

And if I have it, how will I know?

A set bedtime is unfortunately not going to be possible because the most noticeable symptom is that you’ll either start falling asleep at any time during the day or you won’t sleep at all. You could also spike a fever and experience frequent headaches.

There’re two different types of African Sleeping Sickness known as:

East African Sleeping Sickness: a rapidly-progressing strain, with a life expectancy of only a few months
West African Sleeping Sickness: This strain has a slower progression and can be managed, but if left untreated, it can be fatal after approximately 3 years

So, guys, if you’re busy planning your journey to Africa, make sure you are covered up and aware of your surroundings.

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Sources: WHO, WHOCDC, CDC, NY Times