Chagas disease primarily affects low-income people living in poorly constructed homes in rural areas in South and Central America. People who sleep in houses made from mud, adobe, or thatch are at greatest risk. The acute disease generally occurs in children, whereas chronic symptoms usually appear later in life. Persons with weakened immune systems are at risk of severe infections and complications. Travelers who stay in hotels, resorts, or other well-constructed housing facilities are not at risk for getting Chagas disease.
Medicine given during the acute stage of infection is usually effective.
Once the disease has progressed to the later stages, there is no effective cure. Worldwide, an estimated 16 million to 18 million people are infected with Chagas disease. Of those infected, an estimated 50,000 die each year. There is no vaccine or drug to prevent Chagas disease. If that is not possible, use a bednet.