World Chagas Disease Day is observed on April 14 by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness of the disease. Chagas is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and spreads mainly through bites of triatomine bugs or contaminated food. About 8 million people are infected worldwide, with roughly 10,000 deaths each year. Women of childbearing age are a priority because of mother-to-child transmission.
- 2026 theme: "Women at the Heart: Protecting the Next Generation from Chagas Disease"
- Pathogen: Trypanosoma cruzi (parasite)