San Diego City Wire

San Diego County Public Health officials have taken action to combat the spread of Chagas disease by adding it to the local list of reportable diseases. The decision was made ahead of World Chagas Disease Day to raise awareness and improve monitoring of the disease.

The move to include Chagas disease on the reportable diseases list aligns with the criteria set by health authorities, as explained by County Public Health officials. Dr. Wilma J. Wooten emphasized the importance of this step, stating, "San Diego is a binational community and while we do see some cases of Chagas disease in San Diego in travelers, the current methods of gathering information are not providing the full picture."

Chagas disease, caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite carried by triatomine insects, can lead to severe long-term health implications if left untreated. The disease is more prevalent in rural areas of Latin America, where the insects thrive in homes made of mud, adobe, or straw. Despite its origins, Chagas disease affects individuals in the United States, with California reporting a significant number of cases.

Symptoms of Chagas disease can range from mild to severe, with potential complications including heart failure and gastrointestinal issues. To prevent the spread of the disease, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend protective measures for travelers to affected areas, such as wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent.

In observance of World Chagas Day on April 14, efforts are being made to raise awareness about the disease and educate the public on prevention methods. County Public Health officials are collaborating with healthcare providers to enhance resources, investigate infections, and monitor transmission patterns.

Individuals experiencing symptoms that may be related to Chagas disease are encouraged to seek medical attention promptly. By making Chagas a reportable disease, public health officials aim to gather accurate data for better patient care and disease prevention strategies.