Be careful out there, outdoor explorers! A few months back, we talked about how Maryland is experiencing a surge of ticks this year due to weather conditions. Now, there’s another insect that has been spotted more and more throughout the state that you should be aware of. Although the risk of being affected by these bugs is low, you should still keep your eyes peeled and try your best not to get bitten.
Triatomines, most commonly known as Kissing Bugs, are most populous in the Southern United States.
Wikimedia Commons You’ll also find them in Central and South America.
There are 11 known species of Kissing Bugs in the states, and 2 types have been found in Maryland.
Wikimedia Commons / Curtis-Robles et al. Here are the markings you should be on the lookout for.
These nocturnal creatures mostly feed on the blood of mammals at nighttime. And when that happens, there’s a possibility of transferring a parasite called Trypanosoma cruzi to their host.
Flickr / Judy Gallagher The above Kissing Bug was found in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
Since the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite is found in the Kissing Bug’s intestines, most people become infected when the insect leaves traces of feces behind near the bite site. Once you become infected, it’s called Chagas disease.
Wikimedia Commons / CDC/World Health Organization However, it’s said that only half of kissing bugs carry the parasite.
The CDC has estimated that over 300,000 US residents have the parasite.
Flickr / Don Flink Again, most of those are in the Southern states. But a girl in Delaware was recently bitten and the incident made the news throughout the Delmarva area.
There are two phases of Chagas disease. The more common acute phase may cause fever, fatigue, aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or a noticeable rash.
Wikimedia Commons / gailhampshire These symptoms often improve without treatment.
The chronic phase is very rare, but can cause cardiac arrest.
Flickr / Anita Gould Those who’ve made it to the chronic phase may also have a swollen esophagus and colon, enlarged heart, and more.
In Maryland, you’re much more likely to become infected with Lyme Disease, but you should still keep your eyes peeled for these black and orange insects who could potentially be deadly.
Flickr / Wayne Hsieh Don’t let this deter you from exploring the outdoors this summer.
For more information on the Kissing Bug and Chagas Disease, visit the official CDC website.
Wikimedia Commons
You’ll also find them in Central and South America.
Wikimedia Commons / Curtis-Robles et al.
Here are the markings you should be on the lookout for.
Flickr / Judy Gallagher
The above Kissing Bug was found in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
Wikimedia Commons / CDC/World Health Organization
However, it’s said that only half of kissing bugs carry the parasite.
Flickr / Don Flink
Again, most of those are in the Southern states. But a girl in Delaware was recently bitten and the incident made the news throughout the Delmarva area.
Wikimedia Commons / gailhampshire
These symptoms often improve without treatment.
Flickr / Anita Gould
Those who’ve made it to the chronic phase may also have a swollen esophagus and colon, enlarged heart, and more.
Flickr / Wayne Hsieh
Don’t let this deter you from exploring the outdoors this summer.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
