Chagas disease, which can be deadly, is now considered endemic in the U.S.
a day ago
- #public health
- #Chagas disease
- #kissing bug
- Chagas disease, transmitted by 'kissing bugs,' is now endemic in the U.S., per CDC.
- Over 300,000 people in the U.S. are infected, with fewer than 2% aware.
- The disease is asymptomatic in many, but can cause severe heart or digestive issues.
- Kissing bugs defecate after biting, depositing the T. cruzi parasite, which enters the bloodstream if scratched.
- Acute symptoms include eyelid swelling, fever, fatigue; chronic phase can lead to heart failure.
- Testing is advised for those from or traveling to Latin America with heart issues.
- Chagas can also spread via pregnancy, organ transplants, blood transfusions, and contaminated food.
- U.S. blood supply has been tested since 2007, with rare positives.
- Global warming may expand the endemic area northward.