A potentially deadly parasitic infection spread by “kissing bugs” may soon be considered established in the United States, according to the CDC. The illness, known as Chagas disease, is caused by a parasite carried in the bug’s feces. It can remain hidden for decades before leading to heart attacks, strokes, or severe digestive problems. California now accounts for about one-third of the nation’s 300,000 cases.
The biggest danger is that most people never notice early warning signs such as flu-like symptoms or a rash. For many, the first sign may be a serious, life-threatening complication. In Los Angeles County, health officials have already begun routine testing and tracking, underscoring fears that the disease could become a permanent threat.
Doctors note that treatment with anti-parasitic drugs works best when given early. Once the infection advances, managing it becomes much harder. With climate shifts and migration patterns driving spread, experts say wider screening and public awareness will be essential to keep Chagas disease from gaining a lasting foothold in the U.S.
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