What is the treatment for East African trypanosomiasis?
Medical treatment of East African trypanosomiasis should begin as soon as possible and is based on the infected person's symptoms and laboratory results. Medication for the treatment of East African trypanosomiasis is available through the CDC. Hospitalization for treatment is necessary. Periodic follow-up exams that include a spinal tap are required for 2 years.
Once infected, am I immune to East African trypanosomiasis?
No one is immune from East African trypanosomiasis. Even if you had the disease once, you can get re-infected.
Who is at risk for contracting East African trypanosomiasis?
East African trypanosomiasis is usually found in woodland and savannah areas away from human habitation. Tourists, hunters, game wardens, and other persons working or visiting game parks in East and Central Africa are at greatest risk for illness.
Can I take a medication to prevent East African trypanosomiasis?
There is neither a vaccine nor recommended drug available to prevent East African trypanosomiasis.
How can I prevent African trypanosomiasis and prevent other insect bites?
- Wear protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts and pants. The tsetse fly can bite through thin fabrics, so clothing should be made of thick material.
- Wear khaki or olive colored clothing. The tsetse fly is attracted to bright colors and very dark colors.
- Use insect repellant. Though insect repellants have not proven effective in preventing tsetse fly bites, they are effective in preventing other insects from biting and causing illness.
- Use bed netting when sleeping.
- Inspect vehicles for tsetse flies before entering.
- Do not ride in the back of jeeps, pickup trucks or other open vehicles. The tsetse fly is attracted to the dust that moving vehicles and wild animals create.
- Avoid bushes. The tsetse fly is less active during the hottest period of the day. It rests in bushes but will bite if disturbed.
