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Author
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Munyoro, Leocadia
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Title
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The Prevalence of trypanosome infection in tsetse flies at Rekomichi Research Station, Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
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Abstract
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This study investigated prevalence of trypanosome infection in tsetse flies at Rekomechi Research Station, Mana Pools, Zimbabwe, during the period 2022-2023. Tsetse are the primary vectors of trypanosomes, responsible for African Animal Trypanosomiasis (AAT) in animals and Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) in humans. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of various trypanosome species across different age categories of tsetse and to evaluate the relationship between fly age and infection status. Fly collection was done using Epsilon traps, and dissections of the proboscis, salivary glands, and midgut were used to identify trypanosome infection. Wing fray analysis and ovarian dissection were employed to determine the age of the flies.
A total of 3,150 flies were dissected, with 5.78% testing positive for trypanosome infection. Trypanosoma vivax showed the highest prevalence, particularly in older flies, with infection rates of 1.20% in ovarian category 5. T. congolense was the second most common trypanosome, with an overall infection rate of 0.33%. T. brucei, the least prevalent species, was detected in only 0.05% of the flies, with the highest infection rates found in older age categories based on wing fray and ovarian analysis. The study found a significant correlation between fly age and infection rates, with older tsetse flies being more susceptible to infection. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences in infection rates among the various age groups, with flies in wing fray categories 4 and 5 showing the highest prevalence of infection.
Results emphasize the need for continued surveillance, particularly in older fly populations, and the potential for improved molecular diagnostic techniques to better monitor infection dynamics. This study provides crucial insights into the epidemiology of trypanosomiasis in Zimbabwe, highlighting the importance of targeted control measures for managing disease transmission.
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Date
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June 2024
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Publisher
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BUSE
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Keywords
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Trypanosome infection,
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Tsetse flies,
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Rekomichi Research Station,
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Mana Pools, Zimbabwe.
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Supervisor
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Dr. Mgocheki,
