Science Olympiad Disease Detectives Practice Test

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which is transmitted through the bite of triatomine bugs, commonly known as "kissing bugs." Since the causative agent of Chagas disease is a single-celled organism, it is classified under the category of parasitic pathogens. Parasites, like bacteria and viruses, are specific types of pathogens that rely on a host organism for part of their life cycle, and in the case of Chagas, the parasite not only lives within the host but can also lead to significant disease manifestations. This categorization is essential because it informs both the research and treatment approaches for the disease, focusing on anti-parasitic medications rather than treatments that would be effective against other types of pathogens.