Chagas disease, a potentially fatal illness caused by the parasite *Trypanosoma cruzi* and transmitted by 'kissing bugs' (triatomine insects), is increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern in the United States. Experts now advocate for classifying Chagas as endemic within the country, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced surveillance, prevention strategies, and research funding. This call follows a recent report published in the CDC's *Emerging Infectious Diseases* journal, emphasizing the underrecognition and underdiagnosis of this disease.
The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies Chagas as a neglected tropical disease, already endemic in 21 other American countries. The disease's impact is substantial, being a leading cause of heart disease in Latin America and causing more disability than malaria or Zika virus. Transmission primarily occurs when infected kissing bugs defecate near a bite wound, allowing the parasite to enter the bloodstream. Additional transmission routes include contaminated food or blood, organ transplants, and mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy.
Initial symptoms, such as fever, body aches, and rash, can be subtle and often resolve, leading many to remain unaware of infection. However, 20-30% of infected individuals develop serious long-term complications, including digestive and nervous system disorders, heart failure, stroke, and even death. Early diagnosis is crucial, as the disease is curable with the medications benznidazole or nifurtimox, though their effectiveness diminishes with prolonged infection. Currently, many cases remain undetected due to a lack of awareness among healthcare providers.
The CDC estimates that roughly 280,000 people in the US currently have Chagas disease, though the exact number of severe cases and related deaths is unknown. Kissing bugs have been found in 32 states, primarily in warmer regions, but climate change poses a risk of expanding their range. Infected mammals, such as opossums and raccoons, serve as reservoirs for the parasite, highlighting the complexity of the problem. While human cases have been reported in eight states, underreporting remains a significant obstacle to accurate epidemiological data.
Experts stress the importance of recognizing Chagas as an endemic disease in the US. This recognition is essential for implementing effective public health policies and raising public awareness. The experience of countries like Chile and Argentina, which have successfully managed Chagas through robust health campaigns and surveillance, demonstrates the potential for success. Current efforts include home sealing, window screens, and insecticide application, although specific kissing bug control methods require further development. The urgent need for increased surveillance, improved diagnostic capabilities, and dedicated public health campaigns cannot be overstated, to effectively address this growing threat.
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Originally published at: https://www.aol.com/kissing-bug-disease-stay-us-100005445.html
