US EditionCDC Warns of 'Kissing Bug' Disease Spread in the United States
Researchers found that 50% of kissing bugs tested carry the parasite causing Chagas disease, with human cases locally contracted in eight U.S. states, confirming endemic status.
- This month, the CDC warned that Chagas may be establishing in the U.S., with researchers arguing it is now endemic nationwide.
- If a triatomine bites and then defecates near a wound or mucous membrane, the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite can infect humans, domestic animals, particularly dogs, and wildlife, the CDC said.
- Texas A&M University's Kissing Bug Community Science program shows about 10,000 reports across 32 states and 50% of a tested subset carried the parasite, affecting millions in Latin America and 280,000 in the U.S.
- The CDC is urging healthcare providers to recognize Chagas may be more endemic in the U.S., noting the Texas Department of State Health Services documented 50 probable and confirmed autochthonous cases this month.
- Because diagnosis is challenging, experts call for more testing and surveillance as the CDC and Mayo Clinic recommend insect repellent, insecticides, and screened housing to reduce Chagas risk.
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Chagas Disease Is Spreading In The US—Here’s What’s Behind It
Source: Marcos del Mazo / Getty Chagas disease is an often-overlooked but potentially life-threatening illness caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. New warnings about Chagas disease are being issued by officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Once thought to be limited primarily to rural regions of Latin America, Chagas disease is now gaining attention as an emerging health threat within the United States, especi…
Chagas Disease Is Spreading In The US—Here's What's Behind It
Source: Marcos del Mazo / Getty Chagas disease is an often-overlooked but potentially life-threatening illness caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. New warnings about Chagas disease are being issued by officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Once thought to be limited primarily to rural regions of Latin America, Chagas disease is now gaining attention as an emerging health threat within the United States, especi…
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