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Rising Chagas Disease Risk: UTEP Study Reveals Increased Kissing Bug Parasites

KVIA••Paul Schulz
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A recent study by UTEP researchers has uncovered a significant rise in kissing bugs carrying the Chagas disease parasite in the El Paso area, with 88.5% of the bugs tested positive for Trypanosoma cruzi, up from 66% in 2021. Chagas disease can lead to severe heart and gastrointestinal issues years after infection and is spread by these blood-feeding insects, which are increasingly found in residential areas. The study highlights the potential for local transmission and emphasizes the need for public health action, particularly as pets are also at risk. Health experts recommend preventive measures such as sealing home cracks and keeping pets indoors to mitigate exposure.

Key Details: • 88.5% of kissing bugs in El Paso County tested positive for the Chagas parasite. • Health experts recommend sealing cracks in homes and keeping pets indoors. • Seek medical care if bitten by a kissing bug to ensure early detection and treatment.

utep public-health chagas kissing-bugs parasites

People & Organizations

El Paso CountyFranklin MountainsUniversity of Texas at El PasoPriscilla FaraniRosa Maldonadosouthern New MexicoTexas Department of Health

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