Chagas is a potentially deadly parasitic disease caused by the microorganism, Trypanosoma cruzi. It is transmitted to humans by insects known as kissing bugs, as well as via blood transfusions, organ transplants, during pregnancy and childbirth, and by consuming contaminated foods.
Image/Rachel Curtis-Hamer Labs
In Yucatan state, Mexico, health officials are reporting an increase in the parasitic disease during the month of Feb. 2019.
According to the epidemiological bulletin, between the Feb. 3rd and 9th, 24 new cases of Chagas disease have been confirmed in the state. In the month of February, 27 cases have been reported in total to date.
January 2019 saw just three cases and in all of 2018, 62 Chagas cases were reported in Yucatan.
According to the World Health Organization(WHO), Chagas disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis, is a potentially life-threatening illness caused by the protozoan parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi). It is found mainly in endemic areas of 21 Latin American countries.
About 7 million to 8 million people worldwide are estimated to be infected with the parasite.
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