Chagas disease, a parasitic illness spread by triatomine insects known as “kissing bugs,” may be establishing itself in the United States, according to a recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report.

The condition is already endemic in 21 countries in the Americas. Researchers say mounting evidence challenges the long-held view that the U.S. is unaffected. Human cases acquired within the country have been confirmed in at least eight states, with Texas reporting the highest number. Other states with cases include California, Arizona, Tennessee, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, and Arkansas.

The kissing bug, which can carry the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, has been found in 32 states. The CDC report notes that current data is limited, but increasing human encounters and m

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