Venezuela: Chagas disease outbreak in Táchira state

Event

An outbreak of Chagas disease has been reported in Libertador municipality (Táchira state). According to state health authorities on Sunday, April 8, the outbreak has left at least five people dead and 40 others are suspected to have contracted the disease in the area; as of Monday, April 9, at least 26 people have been hospitalized.

Context

Chagas disease, or American trypanosomiasis, is an infectious disease caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite. The disease is transmitted by the bite or consumption of food contaminated with the feces of the triatomine insect, and is primarily found in the Americas, particularly in poor, rural areas of Latin America. Initial symptoms include fever or swelling around the site of infection during the acute phase of the disease, which lasts for a few weeks to a month after infection; a longer, chronic phase follows, in which many of those infected may be asymptomatic. If left untreated, Chagas disease can result in digestive disorders, neurological disorders, cardiac arrhythmia, and even heart failure.

In general, the Venezuelan health system is at risk of collapse. In February 2018, the Pharmaceutical Federation of Venezuela estimated that the country is facing an 85 percent shortage of medicine and a 90 percent shortage of other medical supplies. In addition to severe supply shortages, hospitals have faced electricity outages and have seen a growing number of doctors leave the country in search of better opportunities. The situation has been made worse by the government's refusal of humanitarian aid, with shipments of medicine and first aid supplies being blocked from entering the country.

Advice

To minimize the risk of contracting Chagas disease and other diseases transmitted via insects in Venezuela, use insect repellent, wear covering clothing, and sleep under insect netting or in an air-conditioned room. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop the abovementioned symptoms.