Chagas disease, a tropical disease that can be serious, is becoming entrenched in Florida. A new study found that humans in Florida are increasingly encountering “Kissing bugs” which carry the parasite (Trypanosoma cruzi) responsible for Chagas disease. Researchers collected over 300 kissing bugs taken from 23 Florida counties. Many of the bugs were collected from people’s houses. The scientists analyzed the bug’s stomach contents to determine whether they contained the Chagas disease-causing parasite (Trypanosoma cruzi).
The study found that as humans build more on the kissing bug’s habitat, the insects are finding shelter inside people’s homes. The parasite-infected insects were discovered in more than half of the 23 counties sampled. Most bugs that were living in the homes has fed on the people. Kissing bugs, usually live in wood piles and consume the blood from humans dogs or wild animals.
While the best way to prevent Chagas disease is to avoid building and living on kissing bugs’ habitats, people living in these areas can take measures to protect themselves.For example, they can drape insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets over beds, use insecticides, and use insect repellent on their body. Residents are also advised to inspect their home for possible entry points and avoid having wood piles near the home.
If left untreated, Chagas disease may develop into a chronic illness that harms the brain, heart and other organs. Prevention is the best medicine, but an infection can often be treated if detected early enough.
Full Story: CIDRAP
