ATLANTA - Some health officials now believe Chagas disease, spread through contact with "kissing bugs," has reached epidemic levels, requiring a new classification in the U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that human cases have been documented in at least eight states, but the figure is likely an undercount due to poor surveillance.

Cases involving pets and other animals have been reported in nearly half the country, with a significant concentration across the southern U.S. and in Texas .

Health officials say Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite responsible for the spread, transmits the disease through contact with the bug's excretion.

"Normally they hide during the day and become active at night when they feed on animal and human blood. They usually bite an exposed

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