The Silent Spread: Understanding the Kissing Bug Threat in the U. S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that Chagas disease, often called the kissing bug disease, is now considered widespread in the United States. This condition is caused by a parasite called Trypanosoma cruzi, which is found in the feces of the triatomine bug, commonly known as the kissing bug. The bug gets its nickname because it tends to bite people on the face.

How the Disease Spreads

The disease can spread in a few ways:

• When the bug bites an infected host, it can pass the parasite to humans and animals.
• This usually happens when the bug's feces get rubbed into open wounds, eyes, or the mouth.
• In rare cases, the disease can also be passed from a mother to her child or through contaminated blood transfusions.

Affected States

Chagas disease has been found in eight states:

• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Louisiana
• Missouri
• Mississippi
• Tennessee
• Texas

These cases are not from international travel but from local infections. Overall, the disease is present in 32 states, mostly in the southern half of the country.

Prevalence and Reporting

Texas A&M University’s Kissing Bug Community Science program has received about 10,000 reports of the bugs, and about half of them tested positive for the parasite. However, it is unclear how many people have actually developed the disease, as it is not a condition that doctors are required to report.

Symptoms and Treatment

Chagas disease has two phases:

1. Acute Phase: Happens in the first few weeks or months after infection.
   • Symptoms can be mild or even absent, including fever, fatigue, body aches, or swollen eyelids.
   • It is crucial to get treated during this phase.
2. Chronic Phase: If left untreated, the disease can become chronic and lead to serious health problems, such as:
   • Heart failure
   • Enlarged esophagus
   • Enlarged colon
   • Some people may not experience any symptoms at all.
   • Treatment involves antiparasitic medications.

Prevention Tips

To reduce the risk of getting bitten by the kissing bug, several precautions can be taken:

• Spraying insecticides
• Wearing clothing that covers the skin
• Avoiding raw vegetables and unpeeled fruit
• Using anti-flea and anti-tick medications on pets

These steps can help lower the chances of encountering the kissing bug and contracting Chagas disease.