Guinea Eliminates Sleeping Sickness as Public Health Issue

January 31, 2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently announced that Guinea has successfully eliminated the gambiense form of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), commonly known as sleeping sickness. This milestone was declared on January 29, 2025, ahead of Neglected Tropical Diseases Day observed on January 30. This achievement marks Guinea as the first country to eliminate this neglected tropical disease, reflecting global progress against HAT.

Overview of Human African Trypanosomiasis

Human African trypanosomiasis is caused by the Trypanosoma parasite, transmitted by tsetse flies.
Initial symptoms include fever, headaches, and joint pain.
If untreated, the disease can lead to severe neurological complications and death.
The gambiense form is more prevalent in rural areas of Africa.

Historical Context in Guinea

In the 1990s, HAT re-emerged in Guinea’s coastal regions, particularly around Conakry. This resurgence was linked to increased human activities in mangrove areas. The government recognised the need for intervention and established the National Programme for the Control of HAT in 2002.

Key Strategies Implemented

Guinea’s strategy included mass screening for early diagnosis and treatment. Vector control measures were introduced in 2012 to reduce human-tsetse fly interactions. The use of insecticide-impregnated mini-screens expanded nationwide by 2016. These interventions were critical in controlling the disease’s spread.

Community Involvement and Support

Local communities played important role in the success of the programme. Their involvement ensured that interventions were culturally acceptable. Community support helped maintain momentum during health crises, such as the Ebola outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Advances in Treatment and Funding

Significant advancements in diagnostic techniques and treatment methods contributed to the programme’s success. Continuous funding from WHO and other partners enabled sustained efforts against HAT. The reduction of HAT cases to below the WHO threshold of one case per 10,000 inhabitants in endemic areas confirmed the disease’s elimination as a public health problem.

Global Impact and Recognition

Guinea’s success is part of a larger trend, with several other countries also achieving similar milestones. Togo, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Uganda, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, and Chad have been validated by WHO for eliminating the gambiense form of HAT. Rwanda has eliminated the rhodesiense form, further demonstrating the potential for controlling neglected tropical diseases.

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