Скачать или смотреть Covering Your Health: Chagas Disease

A recent CDC report has identified Chagas disease as endemic to the Southern U.S., including Louisiana, raising awareness about the risk posed by the kissing bug. Chagas is caused by a parasite spread by the kissing bug, which bites around the eyes and mouth while victims are sleeping. The bug's saliva contains an anesthetic, making bites almost unnoticeable. After feeding, the kissing bug leaves behind infected droppings, which can be rubbed into the eyes, lips, or cuts, leading to infection. A notable symptom of Chagas is one-sided eye swelling. Most people clear the infection on their own, but about 30% develop symptoms such as fever, body aches, and rash. A small percentage may face serious heart infections over time.