Question

Which one of the following diseases is caused by the tsetse fly? a) sleeping sickness b) bilharzia c) ebola fever d) malaria e) none of the above

Answer 1

African sleeping sickness, also known as human African trypanosomiasis, is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma brucei and transmitted by the tsetse fly.

Step-by-step explanation:

The disease caused by the tsetse fly is African sleeping sickness, also known as human African trypanosomiasis. This serious condition is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa and is caused by the insect-borne pathogen Trypanosoma brucei. There are two main subspecies responsible for the disease: Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense causes East African trypanosomiasis, while Trypanosoma brucei gambiense causes West African trypanosomiasis. The tsetse fly (Glossina spp.) acts as the vector, transferring the parasites to humans where they can cause symptoms like confusion, difficulty sleeping, and lack of coordination. If left untreated, the infection can be fatal.