Emiliana Rodriguez, a Bolivian woman living in Barcelona, developed a fear of the dark after witnessing a friend’s sudden death, unaware that it was linked to Chagas disease. This parasitic illness, transmitted by nocturnal bugs known as kissing or vampire bugs, affects millions globally, yet many remain unaware. Rodriguez discovered she carried the Chagas parasite as a child, but after taking preventive medicine during her pregnancy, her daughter tested negative. However, many people, like Elvira Idalia Hernández in Mexico, are unaware of the disease’s dangers until diagnosed.

Chagas is often misdiagnosed due to its silent nature, leading to serious health problems like heart failure if untreated. Despite available treatments, they are not very effective, and efforts to raise awareness remain slow. Global organizations like WHO are working towards eradicating the disease by 2030, but progress is slow. Rodriguez, now an advocate for Chagas awareness, calls for better testing, treatment, and public knowledge. The CDC offers tips on how to prevent Chagas, such as sealing gaps in homes and keeping pets inside at night.watch below..