Chagas Disease in the United States

Our research and public health programs address Chagas disease across human, animal, and military health settings. These are a few of our current research programs:

Canine Chagas Testing Program
We are currently working with two San Diego County animal shelters to assess dogs for Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas disease. This program will help us better understand Chagas disease in shelter dogs and strengthen approaches to diagnosis, prevention, and veterinary care.

Newborn Dried Bloodspot Study
In collaboration with the Texas Department of State Health Services, we are conducting a study using newborn dried bloodspots to better understand the potential burden of congenital Chagas disease and inform strategies for early detection.

Military Working Dogs Study
We are studying Chagas disease among military working dogs to better understand potential exposure, infection, and implications for canine health and readiness.

Chagas Disease and Military Policy
Our team is also developing policy insights and recommendations to help the military address Chagas disease in relation to service members, military working dogs, screening, surveillance, and prevention.

Together, these programs support a One Health approach to Chagas disease, recognizing the connections among human health, animal health, and the environments we share.