Preventing the transmission of American trypanosomiasis and its spread into non-endemic countries

Abstract

American trypanosomiasis, commonly known as Chagas disease, is caused by the flagellate protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. An estimated eight million people infected with T. cruzi currently reside in the endemic regions of Latin America. However, as the disease has now been imported into many non-endemic countries outside of Latin America, it has become a global health issue. We reviewed the transmission patterns and current status of disease spread pertaining to American trypanosomiasis at the global level, as well as recent advances in research. Based on an analysis of the gaps in American trypanosomiasis control, we put forward future research priorities that must be implemented to stop the global spread of the disease.

Fig. 1

Mapping data showing epidemiological changes pertaining to Chagas disease between 2002 and 2011 (red refers to endemic areas where transmission is through vectors; yellow refers to endemic areas where transmission is occasionally through vectors; blue refers to non-endemic areas where transmission is through blood transfusion or organ transplantation, etc.)

Fig. 2

Life cycle of the T. cruzi parasite in triatomine insects and humans