Chagas Disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis, is an infection caused by the *Trypanosoma cruzi* parasite. It primarily affects people in Latin America, but is also found globally due to migration. It can lead to severe and irreversible heart and digestive problems if left untreated. Track Chagas Disease activity and outbreaks specific to Maryland.
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Chagas Disease was first described in 1909 by Brazilian physician Carlos Chagas, who identified the *Trypanosoma cruzi* parasite and its triatomine insect vector. His groundbreaking work was the first to fully describe a human disease cycle, encompassing the pathogen, vector, host, and clinical manifestations.
The primary route of transmission is vector-borne, through the bite of infected triatomine (\"kissing\") bugs. The parasite enters when a person scratches the bite, rubbing bug feces into the wound or mucous membranes. Other routes include mother-to-child (congenital), blood transfusions, organ transplants, and consumption of contaminated food or drink.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance
Our AI-powered surveillance continuously monitors Chagas Disease activity across Maryland. We track data from state health departments, local hospitals, CDC reports, and 50+ global health sources to provide early warning of emerging threats.
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For official state health alerts, vaccination locations, and public health guidance specific to Maryland, visit your state health department's website.
Whether you live in Maryland, are traveling there, or have family in the state, understanding Chagas Disease prevention is essential. Follow these evidence-based prevention measures:
If you experience symptoms of Chagas Disease in Maryland, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes significantly.
Emergency symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Trusted information from leading health organizations
Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
View CDC Resources →Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization
View WHO Resources →Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-03
No confirmed cases reported in Maryland yet. Here are the latest Chagas Disease reports from our global surveillance network.
Chagas disease, referred to as a silent killer, is reportedly expanding its presence into homes and kennels across the United States. This signals a growing, serious threat that may often go undiagnosed until advanced stages, requiring immediate public awareness and preventative …
'Kissing bug' disease, which can lead to severe and chronic health complications (Chagas disease), has been declared endemic in the Southern United States. This indicates the disease is now consistently present in the region, posing an ongoing threat to residents. Public awarenes…
**CDC warns of 'kissing bug' disease spread in the United States - UPI.com** Chagas disease -- a potentially serious illness spread by an insect called the "kissing bug" -- may be establishing itself in the United States, according to a new U.S. Centers for Disease Control and P…
Chagas disease, previously prevalent mainly in Latin America, is now increasingly occurring in the US. The "kissing bug" passes on a parasite that can cause life-threatening damage to the heart and nerves. US health authorities are on alert as cases of Chagas disease, originatin…
**Deadly 'kissing bug' disease considered an endemic in US; vulnerable states, early symptoms, risk factors, and prevention tips** A hidden danger has quietly made its way across the United States: the deadly "kissing bug" disease, also known as Chagas disease. Once thought to b…
**Deadly 'kissing bug' disease considered an endemic in US; vulnerable states, early symptoms, risk factors, and prevention tips** A hidden danger has quietly made its way across the United States: the deadly "kissing bug" disease, also known as Chagas disease. Once thought to b…
Oct. 1, 2025 -- If you recently learned about "kissing bug" disease, you're not alone. The parasitic infection -- which is actually called Chagas disease but earned the nickname because it's spread by so-called kissing bugs, or triatomine bugs -- drew public attention recently af…
**Deadly 'kissing bug' disease -- or Chagas -- is now endemic in US, researchers say** The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said Chagas disease, also called kissing bug disease, is now endemic in the United States -- meaning cases are high enough to be conside…
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