Tsetse fly

Definition

The tsetse fly is a blood-feeding insect known for transmitting Trypanosoma brucei, the parasite responsible for African sleeping sickness. It primarily affects the central nervous system, leading to severe neurological symptoms and potentially fatal outcomes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tsetse flies transmit Trypanosoma brucei by biting humans and animals.
2. African sleeping sickness progresses in two stages: the hemolymphatic stage and the neurological stage.
3. Symptoms of the neurological stage include confusion, sensory disturbances, and sleep cycle disruptions.
4. Diagnosis often involves detecting Trypanosoma brucei in blood, lymph node aspirates, or cerebrospinal fluid.
5. Control methods include using insecticide-treated nets, traps, and reducing habitats where tsetse flies thrive.

Review Questions

• What disease is transmitted by the tsetse fly?
• Describe the two stages of African sleeping sickness and their symptoms.
• What are common methods used to control tsetse fly populations?

Related terms

Trypanosoma brucei: A parasitic protozoan species that causes African sleeping sickness.

African Sleeping Sickness: A disease caused by Trypanosoma brucei characterized by fever, lymphadenopathy, and CNS involvement.

Vector Control: Methods used to control or eradicate disease-transmitting organisms such as insects.