While pregnant, Rodríguez discovered she had Chagas disease. Concerned for her baby, she underwent treatment, and fortunately, her daughter tested negative. In Mexico, Elvira Idalia Hernández Cuevas first became aware of Chagas when her 18-year-old daughter tested positive after donating blood. The disease, transmitted by “kissing bugs,” often goes undetected.
First identified in 1909, Chagas is prevalent in Latin America but has spread globally. It is transmitted to humans through insect bites and their feces. The CDC estimates 8 million cases in Latin America, while the WHO reports up to 7 million cases worldwide. Many individuals remain unaware of their infection, and if left untreated, Chagas can lead to life-threatening heart and digestive complications.