A team of researchers at Texas A&M University and the University of Georgia (UGA) has received more than $4 million from federal and non-governmental organizations to support research on Chagas disease prevalence, diagnostics and treatment to benefit both dogs and humans.
Chagas disease is a tropical illness caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which is most commonly spread by the fecal matter of triatomine bugs – also known as “kissing bugs” because they bite their hosts to feed on blood. The disease – common in humans and dogs – often goes unnoticed in early stages, but a chronic infection can lead to serious heart and digestive system problems, making early diagnosis important.
Dr. Sarah Hamer, a professor in the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences’ (VMBS)…