Overview

• Kissing bugs carrying Trypanosoma cruzi have been documented in 32 states, with animal reservoirs and hotspots indicating local transmission cycles.
• Doctors have confirmed locally acquired human cases in eight states—Arkansas, Arizona, California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas—though limited reporting suggests undercounting.
• CDC estimates indicate roughly 280,000 to 300,000 people in the United States are living with Chagas, with some infections detected through routine blood screening in place since 2007.
• Early antiparasitic treatment with benznidazole or nifurtimox is most effective, yet clinician unfamiliarity often delays diagnosis and care.
• Connecticut and much of the Northeast report no local detections, but officials are monitoring for potential northward expansion as climates warm and are urging public reporting of suspected insects.