Chagas disease, or deadly "kissing bug" disease, has spread in the U.S.
2 days ago
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- #Chagas disease
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- Chagas disease, caused by 'kissing bugs,' may be becoming endemic in the U.S., according to the CDC.
- The disease is already endemic in 21 countries in the Americas, with human cases reported in 8 U.S. states.
- Kissing bugs have been reported in 32 states, challenging the U.S.'s non-endemic label for Chagas disease.
- The disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi parasites, transmitted through bug feces entering the body via bites or mucous membranes.
- Globally, about 8 million people have Chagas disease, with 280,000 cases in the U.S., often undiagnosed.
- Symptoms include acute phase signs like eyelid swelling (Romaña's sign), fever, fatigue, and chronic phase heart and digestive issues.
- Prevention includes using insecticides, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding raw fruits and vegetables in endemic areas.
- No vaccines or drugs currently prevent Chagas disease; awareness and protective measures are crucial.