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This is what the so-called kissing virus looks like at different stages of life. It is often identified by its brownish black color and orange stripes on the side. ( Centers for Disaster Control and Prevention )
The so-called kissing bugs are already present in the southern states and are also heading north. What are the important things to know about bugs to kiss?
Kissing insects in the United States
Triatomine bugs, more commonly known as kissing bugs, are so named because of their biting human behavior, especially near the mouth or eyes, and often when the man sleeps.
Kissing bugs are common in hot climates, such as in Latin America, Asia, Africa and Australia, but have since been spotted in many US states. In particular, hugging bugs have been spotted in southern states since the 1800s, but recently they have also been observed in the northern states.
Kissing insects
Insects that kiss are generally more active at night and feed on the blood of mammals, birds and reptiles. They live in a variety of environments, but they can often be found near a creature that they wish to feed.
Places where bugs are often found include woody areas, under porches, under cement, between rock structures, under bush stilts and in kennels or outdoor houses. .
Chagas disease
Unfortunately, insects carry Chagas disease, a disease that can cause fever, mild swelling or, in some cases, inflammation of the heart or muscles of the brain. If it is not treated, it can enter a chronic phase and even last a lifetime.
The infection, however, does not come from the bite itself, but fecal matter from the insect, which will stain to the sore when the stung person scratches himself.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are approximately 300,000 people with Chagas disease in the United States, but this number may increase. Most cases involve people who have contracted the infection after living or traveling to South or Central America. As such, the agency has since implemented training courses on Chagas disease for doctors and nurses.
No need to panic about Chagas disease
Despite the spread of kissing bugs in the country, experts still say that one should not panic about Chagas disease as it is still considered rare in the United States. It is, they say, because of the inefficiency of insects in parasite transmission, their infrequent contact with humans, and their inability to permanently colonize their homes.
That said, it is always wise to be wary of insects, as conditions may change to be more conducive to hugs caused by climate change.
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