‘Kissing bug’ disease now an endemic in the US: CDC
“Kissing bug” disease is now considered an endemic illness in the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced this month. The disease, also known as Chagas disease, has been spreading primarily across southern states.
According to The Washington Post, a disease is considered endemic when it is consistently present within a specific area or population. The CDC said the designation is meant to improve surveillance, research and public health responses.
What is ‘kissing bug’ disease?
Chagas disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi parasites, transmitted through the feces of the triatomine insects — nicknamed “kissing bugs” because they often bite people on the face. Dogs and other animals can also serve as hosts.
The parasites typically enter the body when contaminated feces are accidentally rubbed into open wounds, the eyes or the mouth.
Less common forms of transmission include congenital infection (mother to child) and blood transfusions.
Where is it spreading?
According to the Washington Post, non-imported cases of the disease have been identified in eight U.S. states so far: California, Arizona, Texas, Tennessee, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi and Arkansas.
The CDC has also reported rising infections in dogs, specifically in Texas and California.
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Kissing bugs, bloodsucking insects, “occur naturally in the southern half of the country and have been identified in 32 states,” according to the CDC.
Symptoms of ‘kissing bug’ disease
The CDC says Chagas disease has two phases: acute and chronic.
The acute phase occurs within the first few weeks or months after infection and can be asymptomatic. However, it can also cause mild symptoms like fever, fatigue, body aches or swelling of eyelids. The CDC noted it’s important to seek treatment as soon as these symptoms appear.
Without treatment, the chronic phase of Chagas disease can develop. That level of infection can last several years, or even a lifetime, The Wall Street Journal reported.
Approximately 30% of those who suffer from chronic Chagas disease develop serious health complications, including heart failure or an enlarged esophagus or colon.
Prevention and treatment
There are no vaccines or drugs to prevent Chagas disease, and the U.S. has no systematic surveillance in place to track the disease or its hosts. That’s why prevention is key.
Wearing clothing that covers the skin and spraying areas with long-lasting insecticides can help prevent the spread. The CDC also advises avoiding raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits in areas where Chagas disease has been detected.
For the pet owners out there, anti-flea and tick medications can help prevent the disease.
Should you get infected, the FDA has approved two antiparasitic medicines that can be used for treatment.
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Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
