The World Health Organization (WHO) has lauded Chad for eradicating African Human Trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness.
Infected tsetse flies transmit this disease, which is often fatal without treatment endemic to sub-Saharan Africa.
Chad became the first country to be recognized for eliminating a neglected tropical disease in 2024. With this success, Chad joins the 50 other countries that have reached this goal globally, surpassing the halfway mark towards the objective of 100 countries by 2030.
“I congratulate the government and the people of Chad for this achievement. It is wonderful to see Chad join the growing group of countries that have eliminated at least one neglected tropical disease. The goal of 100 countries is now closer and within reach,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
The symptoms of sleeping sickness can resemble those of the flu, but it ultimately leads to behavioral changes, confusion, and sleep cycle disorders, and can even result in coma and death.
“The elimination of the Gambiense form of African human trypanosomiasis in Chad reflects our determination to improve the health of our people. This success is the result of years of dedicated efforts by our healthcare workers, communities, and partners. We will continue on this path to fight other neglected tropical diseases and ensure a healthier future for all Chadians,” said Dr. Abdel Modjid Abderahim Mahamat, Chad’s Minister of Health.
Togo, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Uganda, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, and now Chad are among the seven countries that have been validated by the WHO for eliminating the Gambiense form of African Human Trypanosomiasis.
As of June 2024, according to the WHO, 20 countries in the African region had successfully eliminated at least one neglected tropical disease. Togo has eradicated four diseases, while Benin and Ghana have each eradicated three.
Source : Africa News
