Chagas Disease on the Rise in the U.S.: How the Kissing Bug Is Spreading North

What Is Chagas Disease?

Chagas disease is caused by a parasite called Trypanosoma cruzi. It spreads mainly through the bite of triatomine insects—often called “kissing bugs.” These bugs are native to Latin America but are also found in the southern U.S. For many years, Chagas was seen as a problem limited to rural Latin America. That picture is changing.

Why Is It in the News?

Health experts now recognize Chagas disease as endemic in parts of the United States, especially in the South. That means it’s not just imported from abroad anymore—it’s starting to spread here. Kissing bugs carrying the parasite have been found in more than 30 states, and confirmed local cases have been reported in Texas, Arizona, California, Louisiana, and beyond.

Why Is It Moving North?

There are a few reasons Chagas disease is making its way into the U.S.:

• Climate change: Warmer temperatures allow kissing bugs to survive and thrive in regions farther north than before.

• Wildlife reservoirs: Animals like raccoons, opossums, and dogs can carry the parasite, helping it spread into new areas.

• Human migration: People moving from endemic regions of Latin America to the U.S. bring the disease with them, which can lead to local transmission if kissing bugs are present.

• Changing environments: As suburban and rural areas expand, people come into closer contact with wildlife and insects that carry T. cruzi.
  

Together, these factors create conditions for Chagas disease to slowly expand its reach beyond its traditional strongholds.

How Do People Get It?

Kissing bugs feed on blood, usually at night. After biting, they often leave parasite-filled droppings near the wound. If the feces are rubbed into the bite or the eyes, the parasite can enter the body.

The chance of catching Chagas from a single bite is very low, but repeated exposures in infested areas can add up.

Other ways the disease spreads include:

• From mother to baby during pregnancy

• Through blood transfusions or organ transplants

• Rarely, through contaminated food or drinks
  

Why Should We Care?

Chagas is known as a “silent disease.” Most people don’t feel sick when they’re first infected. But over years—even decades—it can cause serious problems, including:

• Heart disease (heart failure, irregular rhythms, sudden cardiac arrest)

• Digestive disease (enlarged esophagus or colon leading to swallowing and bowel problems)

Doctors estimate that more than 300,000 people in the U.S. may be living with Chagas disease, but fewer than 2% know they have it.

How Is It Controlled?

In Latin America, spraying homes with long-lasting insecticides has reduced transmission. Blood donation screening has also made transfusions much safer. In the U.S., all donated blood is screened for T. cruzi, which greatly lowers the risk of infection.

Who Should Be Tested?

Doctors recommend Chagas testing for:

• People born in, or who lived for 6+ months in, Latin American countries where the disease is common

• Children of mothers known to have Chagas

• Anyone exposed to kissing bugs in the southern U.S.

• Organ donors and recipients with possible risk
  

Screening is especially important for women of childbearing age and people with weak immune systems.

The Bottom Line

Chagas disease may sound exotic, but it’s now a growing health concern in the U.S. The good news: the risk of infection remains low, and awareness is the best defense.

• If you live in or travel to areas where kissing bugs are found, check your home for cracks or openings where insects could enter.

• If you think you may be at risk, talk to your doctor about getting tested.
  

With more awareness, early detection, and continued research, we can prevent this “silent killer” from taking root in more communities.

And always, our goal with these articles is to keep you informed and empowered about your health. If you’re ready to take the next step and partner with a primary care physician who prioritizes your well-being, reach out to us here. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.