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‘Kissing Bugs‘‍ Carrying Chagas Disease ‌Expand ⁢Across the U.S., Raising​ Public Health Concerns

WASHINGTON – ‌ The range of the⁣ triatomine bug, commonly known as the‍ “kissing bug,” is expanding⁤ across ⁣the United ⁣States, bringing with it the⁣ risk of Chagas disease,⁣ a parasitic infection that can cause serious heart and ‍digestive problems. While​ the bugs themselves aren’t inherently dangerous – they don’t typically transmit the parasite with every ⁢bite – thier increasing presence‌ is prompting health ‍officials ⁣to raise awareness and encourage preventative measures.

Chagas disease, caused by the⁤ parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, affects an estimated 6 to 8 million people in Latin America. though historically rare in the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports the⁤ parasite is now found in 29 states, primarily in ‌the southern U.S.,⁣ but increasingly in states as far north as Pennsylvania ⁢and⁤ West Virginia. The disease can ‍be notably dangerous because‌ symptoms⁢ often don’t appear ‌for ⁣months or even years after⁤ infection, leaving many unaware they’ve been exposed. Early detection and treatment are crucial, as the⁤ disease can progress to a chronic phase, though even than, symptoms and complications can be managed.

These nocturnal insects, named for their habit⁤ of biting sleeping people near the mouth, feed on blood. According​ to texas A&M University, they are typically⁤ found in cracks and crevices of poorly constructed homes, and around animal habitats. The​ bugs⁤ don’t actively seek out humans, but⁤ will ⁣enter homes in search of⁣ a ​blood meal.

The CDC recommends several ⁤preventative measures, including sealing cracks and crevices ⁤around windows and doors, using screens, and keeping indoor areas clean and well-lit. While the bugs can carry the T. cruzi parasite,transmission to ⁢humans isn’t guaranteed with ‍every bite.Though, if ‌a bug is found​ inside a home, the CDC⁢ advises avoiding handling it⁢ directly and contacting ​local health authorities.

Currently,⁤ there is no vaccine for Chagas disease.Treatment involves anti-parasitic medications, which are ​most effective when administered early⁤ in the infection. ⁢ The World Health Organization estimates⁢ approximately 40,000 new cases and 14,000⁤ deaths occur annually ⁣due to‌ Chagas disease globally.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Health, National Library of Medicine, ScienceDirect.com,Multidisciplinary digital Publishing Institute,Texas A&M University,Texas Ecological ​Laboratory and World⁣ Health Organization.