What is chagas disease?

Parasitic disease: Chaga's a tropical parasitic disease caused by the parasite trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by the reduvid "kissing bugs" in parts of south and central america. After an acute symptomatic phase, some people go on to develop chronic chaga's, which can involve the nervous system, GI tract, or heart.

Parasite: Chagas disease is transmitted to humans by the bite of kissing bugs, mother to fetus & by contaminated food. They suck blood & pass on a protozoan called trypanosoma cruzi. Sxs can include fatigue, generalized body aches, loose bowel movements, vomiting, rash, poor appetite. Liver & spleen can enlarge. Brain & heart can become inflamed. It can be treated with anti-parasites early on.