World Chagas Disease Day is an observance day designed to raise awareness about Chagas disease. This day is observed annually on April 14^th and has been since 2020. Chagas disease is a tropical parasitic disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi.

The disease is spread mainly by insects in the Triatominae subfamily, also known as kissing bugs, vampire bugs, or conenose bugs. Over the course of the disease, infected people may experience a variety of symptoms, including headaches, swollen lymph nodes, and swelling at the insect bite site.

The disease can also lead to heart disease and other complications years after the initial infection. That’s why this holiday is an important day on the calendar and raises awareness about it worldwide.

The History of World Chagas Disease Day

In May 2019, the World Health Assembly at the World Health Organization (WHO) issued the final approval for World Chagas Disease Day, and it was first celebrated on April 14, 2020. It has since been celebrated every year and will continue to be observed well into the future, or until there is a cure for this disease.

Important Facts About Chagas Disease

We wanted to include a section of facts about this disease, as we would with the subject of any holiday. That’s why we rolled up our sleeves and found out every bit of information we could on the subject.

We then collated the information and presented it below to help educate as many people as possible about this disease. With that being said, let’s take a look at these facts before we talk about how World Chagas Disease Day is observed.

• Chagas disease can not only be spread through bites but also through congenital transmission, organ transplants, blood transfusions, or by consuming contaminated water.
• The acute phase of Chagas disease can last anywhere from two to three months. The chronic phase can last for years.
• Benznidazole is often used for treatment in the U.S. for Chagas disease.

Observing World Chagas Disease Day

One of the reasons why this holiday is observed is because less than 10% of those infected with Chagas disease actually receive a timely diagnosis, and as such, timely treatment. Delayed treatments result in worse outcomes for victims, which can include serious long-term effects.

That’s why it’s important for the word to get out about this disease so people can seek appropriate treatment and lessen adverse effects on their health.

This is also a good day to raise money for a potential cure for this disease and for improved treatments. People can donate to The Chagas Disease Foundation or they can raise money on its behalf. People can help out a lot by spreading the news about this disease and this holiday online. This can be done by using the hashtag #WorldChagasDiseaseDay.