African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness, is caused by microscopic parasites of the species Trypanosoma brucei which is transmitted by the tsetse fly found in rural Africa. The disease has been a serious public health problem in some regions of sub-Saharan Africa. Symptoms in advanced stages include alteration of biological clocks, confusion, slurred speech, seizures and difficulty walking or talking which can lead to death if not treated. Treatment options include drugs like diminazene and suramin, while prevention focuses on reducing reservoirs of infection and the presence of tsetse flies through screening programs and early diagnosis.