The Chagas diseasecaused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruziit was identified in insects and animals in different regions of the United Statesaccording to recent research. He parasite It is transmitted by triathomins, known as “Bachas Besuconas”, Of which halfway can carry the infection.
According to the centers for disease control and prevention (CDC), so far they have been found Insects infected in 32 statesmainly in the southern region of the country. In addition, the presence of the disease was also confirmed in wild dogs and animals.
The reports indicate that the disease has already reached people in eight states, including Texas, California y Arizona. Although most human cases in the United States are usually acquired abroad.
Researchers ask to recognize Chagas’s evil as endemic in the US.
A review published this month in the magazine Emerging Infectious Diseases of the CDC confirmed the presence of the parasite in 32 states and the notification of human cases in Texas, California, Arizona, Luisiana, Tennessee, Misuri, Misisipi y Arkansa. The specialists warned that the true magnitude of the disease is difficult to establish due to the lack of a uniform surveillance system.
Entomologist Gabriel Hamer declared Los Angeles Times that the cases reported in the country represent “only the tip of the iceberg.” In turn, he stressed: “There is no standardized notification system. There is no active surveillance.”
CDC underlines that, although officially the disease is not considered endemic, the evidence shows transmission in domestic and wild animals, In addition to human infections in various states. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 75 million people around the world They could be at risk of contracting this silent disease.
He CDC warns that in the United States the priority is to avoid Chagas propagation Through blood transfusions, organ transplants and transmission from mother to child during pregnancy. Since 2007 tests are carried out in blood banks to detect the parasite, which has been key to reducing the risk of infection through transfusions.
At home, recommendations include seal cracks and openings On walls and ceilings, Install metal meshes on doors and windows and keep pets inside the house during the night. It is also advised Remove wood batteries o Rocks near the houses, since these spaces can serve as a refuge for triathomins.
For travelers to endemic regions of Latin America, protection measures cover Sleep under mosquito nets treated with insecticide, Use repellentchoose accommodations with good construction conditions and avoid the consumption of fruits or juices without pasteurizing.
CDC remind the population that still There are no vaccines or preventive medications For this disease, so early detection and proper treatment remain fundamental.