What is Chagas Disease?

About Chagas Disease:

• Chagas (CHAH-gus) disease is an inflammatory, infectious disease caused by the protozoan parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi. 
  • This parasite is found in the feces of the triatomine (reduviid) bug.
  • This bug is also known as the "kissing bug."
• Chagas disease is common in South America, Central America, and Mexico, the primary home of the triatomine bug.
• Also called American trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease can infect anyone. Left untreated, Chagas disease later can cause serious heart and digestive problems.
• Treatment:
  • During the acute phase of infection, treatment of Chagas disease focuses on killing the parasite.
  • In people who have chronic Chagas disease, it's no longer possible to kill the parasite. Treatment in this later phase is about managing signs and symptoms. 

Q1: What are Protozoa?

Protozoa are single celled organisms which have a membrane bound nucleus. Most protozoa are free living, but some are parasitic. They are heterotrophs, meaning that they eat other plants or animals for energy and nutrients. They come in many different shapes and sizes ranging from an Amoeba which can change its shape to Paramecium with its fixed shape and complex structure.  

Source: Chagas Disease Parasite Can Survive in Dead Kissing Bugs, Study Finds