Imagine discovering too late that an insect living in your home has put your family at risk. For Elvira Rodríguez, that fear became reality when she was diagnosed with Chagas disease while pregnant. Though treatment protected her baby, the experience left her shaken.
Chagas is caused by a parasite spread through kissing bugs, which thrive in warm climates and poor housing conditions. These bugs feed on blood, then defecate near the bite. Scratching the area can push the parasite-laden feces into the bloodstream, leading to infection.
Globally, millions are affected, yet awareness remains low. Hernández Cuevas, now a Chagas advocate, was blindsided when her son tested positive. “No one talked about this,” she says. “Even doctors seemed unaware.”
The disease can lie dormant for years before attacking the heart or digestive system. While medications exist, they’re far from perfect—Elvira endured nausea and weakness during treatment.
The takeaway? Inspect your home for kissing bugs, especially if you live in or have traveled to endemic areas. Early action could prevent a lifetime of health struggles.
