Observed annually on April 14, World Chagas Disease Day underscores the urgent need to raise awareness and reinforce global efforts to address this neglected tropical disease, which continues to affect millions of people worldwide, particularly in Central and South America, but increasingly across other regions.
The 2026 theme, “Women at the heart: Protecting the Next Generation from Chagas Disease,” places a spotlight on the critical role of women in prevention, early diagnosis, and care. Strengthening access to screening and treatment for girls and women—especially those of reproductive age—is essential to prevent mother-to-child transmission and break the cycle of infection.
Chagas disease—a chronic, potentially life-threatening parasitic infection caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted mainly by triatomine insects—is frequently asymptomatic in its early stages, contributing to underdiagnosis and delayed treatment. If left untreated, it can lead to severe cardiac and gastrointestinal complications years later, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations with limited access to healthcare.
In response to these challenges, GHTM | IHMT NOVA researchers actively contribute to innovative research initiatives aimed at improving the prevention and management of Chagas disease. As part of this effort, GHTM | IHMT NOVA is a partner in the CRUZIVAX international consortium, funded by the European Union, which is developing an innovative, needle-free intranasal vaccine against Chagas disease.
Preclinical studies conducted within the consortium have demonstrated that the chimeric Traspain vaccine can prevent infection, reduce disease severity, and protect the heart—one of the organs most severely affected by T. cruzi. As highlighted by Gabriela Santos-Gomes, researcher from the VBD-GHTM Research Group and member of the consortium: “With the potential to prevent new infections and help to treat chronic cases, this innovative vaccine offers an unprecedented immunomodulatory approach to fight Chagas disease and gives renewed hope to vulnerable communities, particularly those facing social and economic disadvantages.”
Through the integration of scientific innovation and a strong public health perspective, the CRUZIVAX project brings renewed optimism to at-risk populations, particularly those facing social and economic challenges.
More information about the project and its latest developments is available at: https://www.cruzivax.eu/
On this World Chagas Disease Day, GHTM | IHMT NOVA reaffirms its commitment to addressing neglected tropical diseases and to promoting a people-centred approach that recognises the essential role of women in protecting present and future generations.
