Health officials report that a parasitic infection known as Chagas disease, carried by a blood-sucking insect often called the “kissing bug,” has been documented in humans across eight states, including Texas, California, Arizona, Tennessee, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, and Arkansas. Over the past decade, the insects capable of transmitting the disease have been found in 32 states.
The disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, can go undiagnosed for years because early symptoms are often mild or flu-like, such as fever, rash, or swelling at the bite site. In some cases, serious complications like heart attack or stroke may occur before the infection is recognized.
Chagas disease is not spread from person to person or from pets, though animals can also carry the parasite. Transmission occurs primarily through the bite of an infected triatomine bug, but it can also happen through contaminated food, congenital transfer during pregnancy, blood transfusions, organ transplantation, and laboratory exposure.
If detected early during the acute phase, the disease is treatable with antiparasitic medications. In chronic cases, treatment and monitoring can help prevent disease progression and reduce the risk of complications, which may include cardiac, digestive, or neurological issues.
Public health experts are monitoring the situation closely, noting that the prevalence of Chagas disease in multiple states may indicate it could eventually become endemic in the U.S. Residents in affected regions are advised to take precautions to avoid exposure to the kissing bug, particularly around nighttime living areas, and to seek medical attention if they experience unexplained flu-like symptoms or other health concerns.
The CDC emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent long-term health consequences. Worldwide, an estimated 7 million people, mostly in Latin America, are affected by Chagas disease.
