Why Kissing Bugs Are More Dangerous Than You Think

There's a not-so-sweet insect making headlines again: the kissing bug. Despite its cute and somewhat romantic name, this bloodsucking pest is anything but charming.

What is a Kissing Bug?

The "kissing bug" goes by the scientific name Triatoma. The University of Arizona describes these nocturnal blood suckers as "about an inch long, dark-bodied, and having orange or red stripes on their folded wings."

These insects are attracted to light and warmth, and they typically bite near our mouths or eyes while we sleep.

What is the Danger of a Kissing Bug Bite?

The real danger of being bitten by a kissing bug is a nasty illness called Chagas disease. The CDC says Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which these bugs can carry.

Transmission occurs when the bug bites and then, ahem, defecates near the wound. As if that's not enough grossness living rent-free in your head right now, the whole thing can lead to a serious illness. If the feces get into your body through broken skin, or through your eyes, or your mouth, like from scratching the affected area, it can lead to a serious infection.

This "old" disease is also found in our state: How The Bubonic Plague Still Affects Arizona Today

What are the Symptoms of Chagas Disease?

The acute phase of Chagas disease infections includes fever, fatigue, body aches, vomiting, and swollen eyelids (known as Romaña’s sign).

If the infection isn't treated, the disease can become chronic. It progresses silently over the course of years and can damage your heart and digestive system. About 30% of chronic cases lead to serious complications like heart failure or an enlarged colon.

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What Kissing Bugs are Found in Arizona?

Arizona has seven different species of kissing bugs. Triatoma rubida, Triatoma recurva, and Triatoma protracta are the three most common species found in Sierra Vista, Phoenix, and Tucson. While Chagas disease is still considered relatively rare in Arizona, the CDC now classifies it as endemic in the U.S.. That means it’s commonly found across the nation all the time now.

There’s no vaccine for Chagas disease, but the FDA has approved two antiparasitic treatments to combat the illness: benznidazole and nifurtimox; they can be used to fight early-stage infections.

READ MORE: This Deadly Disease Found In Arizona For The First Time

How to Keep Kissing Bugs Out of Your Home

To keep these bugs away from you, the best bet is to keep them from coming into your living spaces. Seal cracks in your home, use window and door screens, and avoid squishing them, because it can spread the parasite. Pest control companies can help you identify these little bugs and remove them from your home.