The oral transmission of Chagas' disease: an acute form of infection responsible for regional outbreaks

Int J Cardiol. 2006 Sep 10;112(1):132-3. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2005.11.087. Epub 2006 Apr 5.

Abstract

Orally transmitted Chagas' disease is an ordinarily rare form of Trypanosome cruzi transmission, and responsible for regional outbreaks. Ingestion of contaminated material is generally associated with massive parasitic transmission, ultimately leading to acute myocarditis, with more severe clinical presentation at younger ages, and high death rates. Close monitoring of regional outbreaks by health agencies is mandatory in order to prevent recrudescence of the disease.

Publication types

  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Americas / epidemiology
  • Animals
  • Chagas Cardiomyopathy / etiology
  • Chagas Disease / complications
  • Chagas Disease / epidemiology
  • Chagas Disease / transmission*
  • Disease Outbreaks
  • Europe / epidemiology
  • Humans