Oral transmission of Chagas disease by consumption of acai: a challenge for Health Surveillance

The occurrence of acute Chagas disease (ACD) by oral transmission related to food consumption, untill 2004, was a little known or investigated event. Currently becomes frequent in the Amazon region and is related to the occurrence of recent outbreaks in several states. Recent cases in Brazil of ACD are related to the consumption of acai juice, considered essencial food in the diet of the population in the Northern Region. The acai berry has been appreciated both for its nutritional value, as by its characteristic flavor, ceasing to be consumed in the producing regions, extending throughout the brazilian territory and even exported to other countries. The aim of this study was to highlight the new challenges faced by public health agencies in preventing the transmission of Chagas disease by consumption of acai. Although there are important strategies being implemented by Brazil to combat Chagas disease transmitted via food, there is still a need for incentives to search for that knowledge generated assist in understanding the oral transmission of this parasite and its better interpretation of epidemiological, prevention and control. Besides the implementation of Good Hygiene Practices, Good Manufacturing Practices and the rapprochement between science institutions and producers of acai to contribute in solving this problem.