In a major public health achievement, Guinea has eliminated the gambiense form of human African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness, as a public health problem. This milestone marks a significant victory in the fight against neglected tropical diseases.
Sleeping sickness, a vector-borne parasitic disease, is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected tsetse flies. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal. Guinea’s success in eliminating sleeping sickness is a testament to the country’s commitment to controlling and eliminating neglected tropical diseases.
The journey to elimination began in the 1990s, when Guinea’s Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene established the National Programme for the Control of Human African Trypanosomiasis. With support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, the programme implemented mass medical screenings, vector control interventions, and community-based initiatives to control the disease.
Despite facing significant challenges, including the Ebola outbreak and COVID-19 pandemic, Guinea persevered and adapted its strategies to maintain control efforts. The country’s success is a result of effective partnerships, community engagement, and sustained investments in disease control.
“Today’s announcement is both a testament to the global progress against neglected tropical diseases and a beacon of hope for nations still battling human African trypanosomiasis,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
Guinea’s achievement serves as a model for other countries in the region and demonstrates that elimination of neglected tropical diseases is possible with commitment, collaboration, and sustained efforts.
WHO/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
