Chagas disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis, is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and spread by triatomine or “kissing” bugs. These bugs bite people, often on the face, and the parasite can enter the body through the bite or a scratch.
Symptoms can appear in two phases:
- Acute phase (weeks to months): fever, tiredness, body aches, rash, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, or swelling near the infection site.
- Chronic phase (years later): about 20–30% of people may develop heart problems (irregular heartbeat, heart failure) or digestive issues (trouble swallowing, severe constipation).
Since December 2019, Chagas has been a reportable condition in Los Angeles County, with over 200 confirmed cases—most linked to travel or residence in Latin America. Fewer than five cases appear to have been locally acquired…