Chagas Disease Now Endemic in California and Southern U.S.

Chagas disease, caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite and transmitted by kissing bugs, is present in the U.S., especially California, with an estimated 300,000 infected individuals, many unaware due to its long dormancy and underdiagnosis. The disease is often linked to Latin American immigrants but is also locally transmitted, with evidence of infection in wildlife and humans. Lack of mandatory reporting and awareness hampers detection and treatment, which could be effective if caught early.