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2d ago

CDC Review Finds Chagas Vectors in 32 States, Local Transmission in Eight

Researchers say an endemic designation would unlock sustained surveillance in U.S. hotspots.

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There are about 200 species of kissing bugs around the world, including 11 that have been identified in the U.S., according to UC Berkeley researcher Bernardo Moreno Peniche. Nine of them have been found to be infected with the parasite that causes Chagas disease. The dead bugs pictured here were in Texas.

Overview

  • Authors of the CDC’s Emerging Infectious Diseases review recommend classifying Chagas as endemic (hypoendemic) in parts of the United States to drive public‑health action.
  • Locally acquired human infections have been confirmed in Texas, California, Arizona, Louisiana, Tennessee, Missouri, Mississippi and Arkansas.
  • Most states do not require clinicians to report Chagas, leaving national data inconsistent and likely undercounting infections estimated at roughly 300,000 people.
  • In Texas, more than 50 local human cases were documented from 2013 to 2023, with some dog kennels showing about 31% infection, indicating entrenched transmission cycles.
  • Transmission typically follows contact with infected triatomine feces, with additional risks from congenital, blood transfusion and organ transplant routes; benznidazole and nifurtimox remain the primary approved treatments.