Have you ever heard of an insect called “the kissing bug?” If so, you probably know that it’s not nearly as pleasant as it might sound. Originally from South America, this disease-carrying bug has slowly made its way up north—as far north as the Buckeye State, in fact. Although this blood-sucking insect might not be a common sight to see in Ohio, it’s definitely something to be on the lookout for in the summer months.
The triatomine bug, known as “the kissing bug”, is a blood-sucking insect that can carry disease. They feed on the blood of mammals, bird and reptiles and can bite humans.
thetechhimself1/Flickr The kissing bug is typically found in Asia, Africa, Australia, Latin America and the southern United States, as it thrives in warm climates.
This nocturnal insect received its nickname from its blood-sucking bite, which often happens on the face and can transmit a parasite that can ultimately lead to Chagas disease.
Curtis Robles/Wikimedia Commons Chagas disease is not always transmitted via a bite. It’s pretty rare to contract, but can lead to cardiovascular and gastrointestinal complications if contracted.
Kissing bugs are most commonly found in New Mexico, Arizona and Texas. In recent years, however, they have spread as far as northern Pennsylvania.
CDC Sightings of only one out of 11 species of this insect have been reported in Ohio.
Southern Ohio is the most likely area of the state where you might encounter one. The most common areas kissing bugs can be found in are wooded areas, brush piles, rocky structures and under porches.
Mike/Flickr The CDC recommends removing trash and wood piles near your home, sealing cracks and keeping your pets indoors at night.
Although the kissing bug has been moving north over the past few decades, it isn’t common to spot one in Ohio. Since it’s possible, however, the CDC recommends taking precautions just to be safe.
gailhampshire/Wikimedia Commons The first case of Chagas disease in the U.S. was reported in the 1950s. For more information about Chagas disease and the kissing bug, click here.
Did you know about the kissing bug? Have you ever encountered one? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
thetechhimself1/Flickr
The kissing bug is typically found in Asia, Africa, Australia, Latin America and the southern United States, as it thrives in warm climates.
Curtis Robles/Wikimedia Commons
Chagas disease is not always transmitted via a bite. It’s pretty rare to contract, but can lead to cardiovascular and gastrointestinal complications if contracted.
CDC
Sightings of only one out of 11 species of this insect have been reported in Ohio.
Mike/Flickr
The CDC recommends removing trash and wood piles near your home, sealing cracks and keeping your pets indoors at night.
gailhampshire/Wikimedia Commons
The first case of Chagas disease in the U.S. was reported in the 1950s. For more information about Chagas disease and the kissing bug, click here.
To read about the rise in ticks this summer in Ohio, check out our previous article: You Won’t Be Happy To Hear That Ohio Is Experiencing A Major Surge Of Ticks This Year.
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