Human African Trypanosomiasis. Facing the challenges caused by neglect: The need for new treatment and diagnostics

This document provides an overview of the current issues surrounding the control of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), better known as sleeping sickness, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma brucei gambiense. It is meant for both medical and non-medical readers, and presents overall global trends as well as MSF’s perspective on the current situation.

The information presented here is not intended to replace or amend either current World Health Organization recommendations on HAT management or MSF’s own HAT manual. Similarly, it should not be considered to be an exhaustive opinion on the global epidemiology of HAT or issues surrounding diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Nor is it a comprehensive literature review, although references are provided to guide readers towards more indepth sources of information.

We hope that this document will facilitate efforts to guarantee future availability of effective HAT diagnostic tests and treatments, and encourage MSF and others to continue their crucial work against HAT, one of the world’s most neglected tropical diseases. HIV/AIDS