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Tsetse Fly

Critical

Glossina morsitans

Overview

A blood-sucking fly that transmits sleeping sickness (trypanosomiasis) to humans and nagana to livestock. Found in sub-Saharan Africa.

Health risks

Transmits sleeping sickness which is fatal if untreated. Also devastating to livestock causing nagana disease. Major health threat in Angola.

Signs of infestation

  • ✓Large flies (8-14mm) with distinctive wing pattern
  • ✓Painful bites during daylight
  • ✓Found near rivers and woodland edges
  • ✓More active in warm humid conditions

Prevention

  • ✓Avoid woodland and riverine areas in known tsetse zones
  • ✓Wear light-coloured clothing — tsetse are attracted to dark colours
  • ✓Use insecticide-treated screens
  • ✓Support community bush clearing programmes

Common regions

📍 Sub-Saharan Africa📍 High risk in Angola📍 Central Africa📍 East Africa

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