Chagas

What is Chagas disease? Also called American trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease is an infection caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Worldwide, it is estimated that 16 to 18 million people are infected with Chagas disease; of those infected, 50,000 will die each year. Where is Chagas disease found? Chagas disease is locally transmitted in Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. It is …

…in thatch, mud, or adobe houses. *<Tab/>Use insecticides to kill bugs and reduce the risk of transmission. *<Tab/>Remain aware that, in some countries, the blood supply may not always be screened for Chagas disease and blood transfusions may carry a risk of infection. Can I take medication to prevent Chagas disease? No, there is neither a vaccine nor recommended drug available to prevent Chagas disease.