Trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness, is a disease caused by parasites of the genus Trypanosoma. It is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected tsetse flies, which are found in parts of Africa. There are two forms of the disease: Trypanosoma brucei gambiense, which causes a chronic infection, and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, which leads to an acute form. Symptoms of trypanosomiasis include fever, headaches, joint pain, and, in later stages, neurological issues such as confusion and sleep disturbances. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal. Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests, and treatment involves specific medications to eliminate the parasites from the body.