In April 1909, Carlos Chagas (1878-1934), a researcher of Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), announced to the scientific world the discovery of a new human disease. In the previous year, Chagas was already able to identify its causal agent – a protozoan that he called Trypanosoma cruzi, in honor of Oswaldo Cruz – and the transmitting insect, known as barber. Chagas’ “triple discovery”, deemed unique in the history of medicine, is a milestone in the Brazilian science and health history.

Further information on Chagas Disease’s Website.