The Cure - Episode 2: Tackling Chagas Disease with Insecticidal Paint

🦠 Chagas disease is a parasitic illness found in rural regions of Central and South America, infecting over 10 million people.

🪳 The disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which is transmitted by the triamine bug known as vinca.

⏰ Chagas disease has an acute phase lasting 2 months with mild symptoms, followed by a chronic stage that can occur years later.

🐜 The vuka insect can cause intestinal and cardiac disorders, leading to heart failure and sudden death.

💉 There is currently no vaccine for the vuka insect.

👨‍🔬 Abraham is an expert on the vuka insect and assures that we won't be bitten during this time of day.

🔍 Chagas disease has had a devastating impact on communities like oriti, with up to 80% of the population affected.

💔 The pain and suffering caused by Chagas disease infection is severe.

🩺 Dr. P Mato has been working in Bolivia for the past 15 years to combat Chagas disease.

🎨 A new technology called biopolymeric microcapsulation has been developed as an advanced form of insecticidal paint to combat chuga disease.

🔬 This new paint contains insecticides embedded within microcapsules, allowing for a slow release over 2 to 4 years and lower concentration of chemicals.

🌈 By using this paint, multiple different pesticides can be utilized simultaneously, even if they are not compatible when mixed together in traditional insecticidal paints.

✨ Financial support from organizations and donors has enabled the treatment of 6,000 homes in 93 communities, resulting in a significant decrease in new cases of Chagas disease.

💪 Each home costs approximately $200 to paint, making the treatment affordable and accessible to the communities.

🐜 Insightful discovery: The insect that causes Chagas disease does not bite, leading to a better understanding of prevention methods.

🏡 Using a specialized paint, houses can be effectively cleared of insects within 24 hours, providing protection against diseases like Chaga, Dengue fever, and malaria.

🌍 This innovative solution is being utilized in communities in Ghana to combat the spread of insect-borne diseases.

🪳 The paint has shown remarkable success in eliminating pests, improving the living conditions of households and preventing illnesses.