Tsetse Fly

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