Every year World Chagas Disease Day is observed on April 14. 

Chagas disease is a life-threatening illness. 

Though mostly endemic in Latin America Chagas disease now has become global  due to large-scale population movements. It is caused by a parasite named Trypanosoma cruzi. Millions of people are affected with the disease in Central and South America. The parasite is also known as the ‘kissing bug’. 

Chagas disease is also known as American trypanosomiasis

The disease is transmitted through contact with infected blood-sucking triatomine bugs’ faeces and/or urine (vector-borne transmission). 

However, it can also be transmitted through blood transfusion, organ transplant or mother to child during pregnancy 

Symptoms of the Chagas disease 

70% of those with the Chagas parasite will never develop symptoms. There are often no symptoms until it is too late. Symptoms of the disease tend to be similar to a mild cold or fever. 

World Chagas Disease Day

Every year on April 14 World Chagas Disease Day is observed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about the disease. 

On April 14, 1909 Chagas disease was diagnosed by Brazilian doctor and researcher Carlos Ribeiro Justiniano Chagas. 

As a corollary, April 14 was selected to commemorate the discovery of the first human case of Chagas disease.

Theme for World Chagas Disease Day 2023

The theme for World Chagas Disease Day 2023 was “Time to integrate Chagas disease into primary health care,” reflecting the importance of early detection and treatment of this disease.

Key Takeaways

• Chagas disease is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi). 

• Chagas is spread by the bite of an insect which infects people with a parasite Trypanosoma cruzi that causes the disease