State health officials are worried that an incurable, some-times deadly disease may be spreading in Arizona.

They're so concerned it is now mandatory that doctors notify the state when a patient tests positive.

It's called "Chagas Disease," primarily found in Latin America.

There is growing concern the disease and the parasite that causes it are heading north.

The state is now collecting data on how often this disease is diagnosed here in Arizona.

It's still considered extremely rare here. But the problem is, after the first month of infection, an infected person may not feel any symptoms for 20 years. By then, the parasite has already done serious damage.

Here are some links to learn more about the disease:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Chagas Page

University of Arizona Kissing Bug Project

Arizona Department of Health Services Chagas Page