The American Heart Association issued a warning this week about "kissing bugs" that carry a parasite which can cause heart disease in humans.
Chagas disease is caused by an infection from the parasite called Trypanosoma. About one-third of people infected with the parasite develop heart problems.
The "kissing bugs" that transmit the parasite are called triatomine, and they're nicknamed as such because of their tendency to land on people's faces near their mouths.
The parasite enters the human body via the insect's feces, the American Heart Association said.
Chagas disease has long been an issue in Central and South American countries, along with Mexico. It has since spread to other countries — including the United States, where an estimated 300,000 people have been stricken with it.
Other nations being impacted by the disease include Spain, Italy, France, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Japan.
The American Heart Association published its findings in its journal Circulation.
"Early detection of Chagas disease is critical, allowing prompt initiation of therapy when the evidence for cure is strong," co-author Caryn Bern, a doctor and professor, said.
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