Microbiology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Microbiology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Chagas disease is a tropical parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, and its primary vector is the kissing bug. Kissing bugs are a group of triatomine bugs belonging to the Reduviidae family and are known for their blood-feeding behavior, particularly at night. They typically bite humans around the mouth or eyes, which is how they acquired the name "kissing bug." The transmission occurs when the bug defecates during feeding, and the infected feces are introduced into the bite wound or mucous membranes.

The other vectors mentioned do not play a role in the transmission of Chagas disease. The tsetse fly is primarily associated with African sleeping sickness, while mosquitoes are the principal vectors for diseases like malaria and dengue fever. Horseflies are not involved in transmitting any significant diseases like Chagas. Therefore, the kissing bug is correctly identified as the vector associated with Chagas disease, making it the right choice.