'Kissing bug' Chagas disease is here to stay in the US, experts say
9 hours ago
- #kissing bugs
- #public health
- #Chagas disease
- Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is now considered endemic in the United States.
- The disease is primarily spread by kissing bugs, which defecate near bite wounds, allowing the parasite to enter the body.
- Chagas can also spread through contaminated food, blood transfusions, organ transplants, and from mother to child during pregnancy.
- Early symptoms include fever, body aches, headaches, and fatigue, but 20-30% of infected individuals develop severe complications like heart disease or stroke.
- Medications like benznidazole and nifurtimox can cure Chagas if caught early, but effectiveness decreases over time.
- The CDC estimates around 280,000 people in the U.S. have Chagas, but surveillance is limited and many cases go undiagnosed.
- Kissing bugs have been found in 32 states, with infections reported in humans in eight states.
- Experts advocate for better surveillance, public awareness, and prevention efforts, similar to those in countries like Chile and Argentina.
- Current U.S. efforts are lacking, with no specific programs targeting kissing bugs, unlike mosquito control initiatives.