Options for vector control against trypanosomiasis in Africa

Tsetse control has long been an important option for reducing the impact of African trypanosomiasis but, although many effective methods have been use d. the results have seldom proved sustainable. Developments to reduce cost and environmental impact increasingly limit the choices available for contr ol and the scale of operations has declined. Conversely, human trypanosomia sis has reached epidemic proportions in some countries. Here, peg Allsopp a rgues that those tasked with managing trypanosomiasis or committed to pover ty alleviation in Africa should consider large-scale, area-wide tsetse cont rol involving all proven methods, including aerial spraying and the sterile insect technique.