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Autochthonous Chagas Disease - Missouri, 2018
MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
|February 21, 2020
Summary
A Missouri woman tested positive for Chagas disease antibodies, with no travel history. This suggests a potential local transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi in the southern United States.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
- Public Health
Background:
- Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, is endemic to Latin America.
- The presence of triatomine vectors in the southern United States raises concerns for local transmission.
- Screening blood donations is crucial for identifying potential infections.
Observation:
- A Missouri woman without typical risk factors tested positive for T. cruzi antibodies.
- Clinical evaluation revealed no symptoms consistent with active Chagas disease.
- Confirmatory testing at the CDC supported a T. cruzi infection.
Findings:
- The patient's infection status, lacking travel or occupational exposure, suggests autochthonous transmission.
- This case represents a potential first instance of locally acquired Chagas disease in Missouri.
- The findings highlight the possibility of T. cruzi transmission within the United States.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers in the southern US should consider Chagas disease in differential diagnoses.
- Public health surveillance for Chagas disease needs to be enhanced in non-endemic regions.
- Further research is needed to understand the epidemiology and transmission dynamics of T. cruzi in the US.
