Chagas Disease Day

World Chagas Disease Day: Observed annually on April 14th to raise awareness of Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease.

2025 Theme: “Prevent, Control, Care: Everyone’s Role in Chagas Disease” emphasizes the need for collective global action.

First Celebration: The day was first celebrated in 2020.

Global Impact: Over 7 million people are infected worldwide, with more than 100 million at risk.

Annual Deaths: An estimated 10,000–12,000 deaths occur annually due to Chagas disease.

WHO Urgency: The World Health Organization and partners urge strengthening early diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive care.

What is Chagas Disease: A potentially life-threatening illness caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi.

Transmission: Primarily transmitted by triatomine bugs (“kissing bugs”), but also via blood transfusions, organ transplants, mother-to-child transmission, and contaminated food.

“Silent Disease”: Often called the “silent or silenced disease” due to its asymptomatic nature and impact on marginalized populations.

Geographic Spread: Endemic in 21 Latin American countries but increasingly detected in the United States, Europe, and other regions due to migration.

Treatment: Benznidazole is the preferred first-line treatment.