Chagas disease

Updated: 2024-03-30

Description

An illness caused by infection with a parasite spread by the triatomine bug.

Overview

Chagas disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi parasites. The triatomine bug, also known as the kissing bug, often spreads these parasites. The bug leaves infected droppings on human skin after feeding. Other routes of infection are food contamination with bug droppings and passing the infection during birth.

Symptoms

Chagas disease can be mild, causing swelling at the site of infection. Other symptoms include fever, swollen glands and rash. Left untreated, Chagas disease may cause heart-related complications or problems with digestion.

Treatments

Medicines that target the parasite can treat Chagas disease. Chronic illness is treated with medicines to slow the progress of the disease and manage symptoms.