Triatominae, “kissing bugs,” are commonly found across tropical climates, most often in South and Latin America. However, the bugs have been making a gradual march northwards and are affecting people in Texas. Unfortunately, kissing bugs may spread a potentially deadly disease, Chagas disease, and Houstonians need to know a few facts about these insects.
Kissing Bugs Have Been Found Across Texas
In November 2015, a joint investigative report from the Dallas Morning News and NBCDFW found kissing bugs are becoming more prominent across Texas. Unfortunately, this means areas further south of Dallas and Austin, such as Houston, have existing triatominae infestations. However, some researchers believe these bugs have been affecting the area for a longer time, and expansion into rural areas is contributing to greater contact between these bugs and people. In most cases, reports the CDC, triatominae infestations are found in the following areas:
- Under porches.
- In rocky structures.
- Beneath cement.
- In wood piles, brush, or bark.
- Near rodent nests and animal habitats.
- Near outdoor animals, such as dog houses, kennels, or chicken coops.
Most Triatominae Carry Chagas Disease
66 percent of analyzed kissing bugs in Texas have tested positive for recent ingestion of human blood. Furthermore, 60 percent of these bugs also tested positive for the parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi). T. cruzi causes Chagas disease, which routinely presents with flu-like symptoms. However, Chagas disease may progress over several years and could even result in death.
How Is Chagas Disease Transmitted?
The transmission of Chagas disease typically occurs when the bug defecates after feeding, which is most commonly on the face and lips. After the bite, the parasite that causes Chagas disease infects a person by getting beneath the skin. However, infection of the parasite may occur through any opening, such a cut, scratch, the eyes, your mouth, or your nose, asserts the Mayo Clinic.
What About Pets?
Your pets may also be affected by transmission of T. cruzi. Currently, hundreds of dogs in Texas have been infected with the parasite, as explained in another report by NBCDFW. 351 dogs with Chagas disease cases have been identified over the last two years. Some of the symptoms of Chagas disease in pets include the following:
- Fever.
- Lack of appetite.
- Swollen lymph nodes.
- Tiredness and fatigue from early heart disease.
Unfortunately, the disease often goes undiagnosed in dogs and may cause sudden death.
What Can You Do?
Since triatominae have become prevalent across the state, you must take action if you notice any of these bugs near your home. Ensure all of your entryways and windows are properly sealed, and contact a professional exterminator to treat the affected areas. Although the bug’s name sounds sweet, the potential health risk to family and furry friends is great if they become infected.
If your home has become the latest breeding ground for kissing bugs, contact Preventative Pest Control today. We will be happy to give these bugs a push out of your life, instead of a kiss.