[kach22i]

CHAGAS DISEASE unknown to most but scientists say very costly to U.S. economy ~ FLORIDA man dies of EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS ~ RABIES reports from FL, & NC. | Natural Unseen Hazards Blog

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which is transmitted to animals and people by insect vectors that are found only in the Americas (mainly, in rural areas of Latin America where poverty is widespread). The insect vectors are called triatomine bugs (also called kissing bugs or conenose bugs). Chagas disease is also referred to as American trypanosomiasis.AZ Dept of Health Services.

CHAGAS DISEASE unknown to most but scientists say very costly to U.S. economy ~ FLORIDA man dies of EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS ~ RABIES reports from FL, & NC. | Natural Unseen Hazards Blog

Triatomine bugs are typically found in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America (as far south as southern Argentina). The map above details triatomine occurrence by U.S. state. CDC 2012.