Chagas Disease in the United States
Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and is primarily spread by triatomine bugs, also called kissing bugs. In the U.S., cases are most often linked to travel or immigration from Latin America, but local transmission can occur in certain states.
States with Local Chagas Risk
Local transmission has been documented in the southern half of the country, including Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and California. Other states with reported infected bugs or animals include Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, and parts of the Southeast and Southwest.
Symptoms, Testing, and Prevention
Early symptoms are often mild or absent, but the disease can lead to serious heart or digestive complications years later. People concerned about exposure should consult a healthcare provider and consider testing, especially if they live in or have visited areas with kissing bugs.
For more information on Chagas disease distribution and prevention, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention page on Chagas Disease.
