Trypanosomiasis: A Silent Threat This Rainy Season

With the arrival of the rainy season comes renewed greenery, fresh pastures and an old, yet persistent threat to animal health: Animal Trypanosomiasis, commonly called Nagana.

This vector-borne disease is caused by Trypanosoma spp transmitted by the bite of infected tsetse flies. It primarily affects cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, donkeys, horses, and in some cases, dogs. The tsetse fly population thrives in the humid and overgrown vegetation that typically flourishes after the rains, putting animals at greater risk during this time.

In the field, we see animals present with high fever, progressive weight loss, pale mucous membranes, swollen lymph nodes, and general weakness. If left untreated, many of them succumb leading to economic setbacks for farmers, reduced livestock productivity, and food insecurity in affected communities.

The public health implication is clear: what affects our animals affects us all. Meat, milk, and draught power are compromised, and in endemic zones, livelihoods are disrupted.

But this doesn’t have to be the case.

With proper awareness and action, Trypanosomiasis is preventable and manageable. Clearing vegetation near grazing areas, adopting insecticide treatments, and scheduling routine veterinary checkups are key preventive steps. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are just as critical.

As a Veterinarian deeply passionate about public health, I urge farmers, livestock handlers, and communities to stay informed and proactive. Protecting animals from Trypanosomiasis is a step towards stronger farms, safer food systems, and healthier communities.

Let’s act early. Let’s act smart.