Deadly silent killer bug who creeps in the night and bites on the face is now in Unites States and it’s being called ‘The New AIDS’.
This disease is being dubbed the “New AIDS of the Americas” by researchers because it’s initial symptoms are hard to detect. Many call it the “kissing bug” due to its exclusive attack place being on one’s face. Doctors are calling it a silent killer – and are not completely prepared for it’s arrival.
The bug has recently made its way north onto US soil and has already affected 27 residents in Houston, Texas. The tiny insect feeds on human blood much like a mosquito, but it is specific to biting the victim’s face. The infected will experience fever, fatigue, body aches, rash, diarrhea and vomiting, according to the CDC. However, the disease can cause heart failure and intestinal complications over time.
Nolan Garcia, an epidemiologist at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston said “People don’t normally feel sick, so they don’t seek medical care, but it ultimately ends up causing heart disease in about 30% of those who are infected”.
The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH) released a report last week outlining the ramification of this bug infestation and claimed US healthcare workers lack awareness which prevents successful diagnosis and treatment of this disease. The report noted that the dearth of federally licensed drugs to combat the disease also limit patients access to treatment.
