Vector competence re-evaluation of reared Glossina palpalis gambiensis for transmission of Trypanosoma congolense and Trypanosoma brucei brucei isolates for an experimental event

The VC for T. b. brucei aligned with previous findings from 21 years ago, though a different trypanosome isolate was used at that time. However, using the same trypanosome strain, the observed competence for T. congolense was 4.8 times higher than previously reported. These results raise questions about the long-term effects of insectary rearing on VC, particularly in the absence of prolonged parasite exposure.