Healthcare (Commonwealth Union) – Tropical diseases have always been a significant challenge in Africa, impacting millions of lives and hindering development. However, concerted efforts by governments, international organizations, and communities offer hope for reducing the burden of these diseases. Continued investment in treatment, and research, along with robust healthcare infrastructure, is essential to combat tropical diseases and improve the health and well-being of people in Africa.
The World Health Organization (WHO) sent their congratulations to the African nation of Chad for eliminating the gambiense form of human African trypanosomiasis that is often referred to as sleeping sickness, as a public health issue. This marks the first neglected tropical disease to be eradicated in Chad.
Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), commonly known as sleeping sickness, is a parasitic disease that has its transmission done by tsetse flies. The disease is caused by the Trypanosoma parasite, which is spread to humans through the bites of these infected flies. The flies themselves become carriers after biting infected humans or animals. HAT exists in two forms: one caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense, prevalent in 24 countries across West and Central Africa, responsible for over 92% of the cases. This form is the only type of HAT found in Chad. The other form is caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, occurring in 13 countries in East and Southern Africa, and responsible for the cases that are remaining.
To get a grip on sleeping sickness, strategies focus on reducing the reservoirs of infection and the presence of tsetse flies. Screening at-risk populations helps in the early identification of patients, allowing for timely diagnosis. This early intervention can prevent the need for complex and hazardous treatments in the later stages of the disease, greatly enhancing the chances of a successful cure.
In 2024, Chad becomes the first nation to be recognized for eliminating a neglected tropical disease, making it the 51st country to achieve this milestone worldwide. This accomplishment signifies the first step beyond the halfway mark towards the global goal of 100 countries by 2030. The 100-country target is part of the four major global objectives outlined in the Road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030.
“I congratulate the government and the people of Chad for this achievement. It is great to see Chad join the growing group of countries that have eliminated at least one NTD. The 100-country target is nearer and within reach” added Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
Sleeping sickness is often known to begin with flu-like symptoms but can progress to result in changes of behavior, confusion, disturbances in sleep patterns, or even coma, which can frequently lead to death. Enhancing early diagnosis and treatment, along with effective surveillance and response, has demonstrated that countries can control and eventually eradicate the disease’s transmission.
To date, the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the elimination of the gambiense form of human African trypanosomiasis in seven nations that consist of the Commonwealth nations of Togo (2020), Uganda (2022), as well as other non-Commonwealth African nations such as Benin (2021), Côte d’Ivoire (2021), Equatorial Guinea (2022), Ghana (2023), and Chad (2024). The rhodesiense form of the disease has been eliminated as a public health problem in the Commonwealth nation of Rwanda, as validated by WHO back in 2022.
“The elimination of the gambiense form of human African trypanosomiasis in Chad reflects our commitment to improving the health of our people. This achievement results from years of dedicated efforts by our health workers, communities, and partners. We will continue this momentum to tackle other neglected tropical diseases and ensure a healthier future for all Chadians” explained Hon. Dr Abdel Modjid Abderahim Mahamat, who is the Minister of Health for Chad.
As of June 2024, within the WHO African region, 20 nations have eradicated at least one neglected tropical disease. Among these, Togo stands out for eliminating 4 diseases, while Benin and Ghana each have accomplished the elimination of 3 diseases.
