T. cruzi

T. cruzi, or Trypanosoma cruzi, is a microscopic parasite responsible for Chagas disease, primarily affecting people in Latin America. It is transmitted through the feces of triatomine bugs, also known as kissing bugs, which bite humans and defecate near the site of the bite. The parasite can also spread through contaminated food, blood transfusions, or from mother to baby during pregnancy. Infections may be asymptomatic initially or cause symptoms like fever, fatigue, and swelling. If untreated, T. cruzi can damage the heart and digestive system over time. Diagnosis involves blood tests, and treatment with specific medications can be effective.