Kissing bugs, members of the Triatominae subfamily of assassin bugs, are insects that feed on blood. These nocturnal insects can transmit a parasite causing disease, prompting interest in their presence. Understanding where these bugs are found in the United States helps identify potential risks and take appropriate precautions. This article explores their distribution, identification, disease transmission, and steps to take if one is encountered.
Geographical Presence Across the US
Kissing bugs are found throughout North, Central, and South America, with a notable presence in the United States. They have been documented in at least 29 states. The southern states, particularly Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, report the most diverse species and highest number of findings. These regions provide warm, arid, or semi-arid conditions conducive to their survival and reproduction.
Their range might be expanding northward, possibly due to climate shifts. Triatoma sanguisuga, known as the eastern bloodsucking conenose bug, is commonly encountered in the southern and southeastern United States. Triatoma gerstaeckeri is frequently collected in Texas, and Triatoma protracta is common in the southwestern states. Although found in many states, their presence in some, such as Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, is less common, with few documented instances. These bugs typically inhabit natural environments like woodrat burrows and opossum nests, but they can enter human dwellings, often attracted by outdoor lights.
Identifying Kissing Bugs
Identification of a kissing bug is important, as several other insects can resemble them. Adult kissing bugs typically measure between 1/2 and 1 1/4 inches long. Their bodies are usually dark brown or black, often featuring distinctive orange, red, or yellow stripes along the edges of their abdomen.
These bugs possess a cone-shaped head, slender antennae, and thin legs without noticeably thicker areas. They also have straight, thin mouthparts, known as a proboscis, which they may tuck beneath their bodies. Kissing bugs prefer to hide during the day in cracks, crevices, and under furniture, emerging at night to feed. They may be found in and around homes, including under porches, in animal burrows, and near sleeping areas.
Chagas Disease Transmission and Risk
Kissing bugs can transmit Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite responsible for Chagas disease. Transmission is specific: the parasite is not spread through the bug’s bite or saliva. Instead, infected kissing bugs carry the parasite in their gut and release it in their feces, often while or immediately after feeding. Infection occurs if these feces enter the body through the bite wound, or if they are inadvertently rubbed into mucous membranes like the eyes or mouth.
While kissing bugs are present in the US and many carry the parasite (up to 50% in some areas), human transmission of Chagas disease within the United States is relatively rare. Most human cases of Chagas disease in the US are acquired in Latin American countries where the disease is endemic. Wild animals such as woodrats, raccoons, coyotes, and opossums can serve as reservoirs for the T. cruzi parasite, and kissing bugs can become infected by feeding on them.
Responding to a Kissing Bug Sighting
If a bug suspected to be a kissing bug is found, it is important to handle it safely without direct contact. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against touching or squashing the bug, as the parasite can be present in its feces or on its body. Instead, use gloves or a small plastic bag to carefully collect the bug and seal it in a container or vial. Freezing the bug can help preserve it for identification.
After collection, contact local health departments, university entomology departments, or state public health laboratories for identification and potential testing. It is helpful to note the exact location, date, time of day, and any observations about the bug’s activity. To help prevent kissing bugs from entering homes, seal cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and foundations. Installing screens on windows and doors, reducing outdoor lighting that attracts insects, and removing debris or woodpiles near the house can also reduce their presence. Keeping pet sleeping areas clean and having pets sleep indoors at night can also help.