Gabrielle Baca
Research Project Sumary:
Triatomines, often referred to as "kissing bugs," serve as vectors for transmitting the parasitic protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, which is the causative agent of Chagas disease. These insects are commonly found in the Southwestern United States, particularly in areas such as Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico. Infection with T. cruzi can lead to severe health issues, including cardiac and gastrointestinal complications, and may even be fatal in advanced cases. In this study, we focused on testing for T. cruzi infection in triatomine insects collected from urban and suburban areas in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The detection of T. cruzi in triatomines is an essential step in monitoring and preventing Chagas disease in the human and animal populations along the US-Mexico border region.