Chasing Life Kissing Bug Disease Is Spreading; How To Stay Safe
Sep 23, 2025
Kissing bug disease, also known as Chagas, is spreading in parts of the U.S. Dr. Sanjay Gupta breaks down how the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite is transmitted, its symptoms, and the importance of testing. Find out about treatment options and learn how it can affect pets, including signs to watch for. Practical tips on preventing exposure at home and while traveling are also discussed, making this a crucial listen for anyone concerned about this emerging health threat.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
How Chagas Infection Actually Happens
- Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi transmitted by triatomine "kissing" bugs that often bite faces at night.
- Parasites enter through skin breaks or when people rub bites into eyes or mouth, initiating infection.
Chagas Is Expanding Northward
- Chagas is moving north as warmer weather expands kissing bug range and has been found in many U.S. states.
- The CDC considers endemic presence when a disease is constantly present in an area, which may now apply to parts of the southern U.S.
High Infection Rate Among Local Bugs
- About half of the kissing bug species in the U.S. carry T. cruzi, making exposure risky where bugs are present.
- Adult bugs live up to two years and are active primarily at night when people are vulnerable.