Beware the Kissing Bug: A Hidden Summer Pest with Serious Risks

Summer means fun in the sun — and unfortunately, it also brings pests. While mosquitoes and ticks get most of the attention, the kissing bug is quietly on the rise and deserves your notice. These nocturnal insects feed on blood, often biting near the face while people sleep. More concerning, they can carry Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite responsible for Chagas disease, a serious and sometimes lifelong illness.

Kissing bugs are about an inch long, with dark bodies marked by colorful patterns. Their bites might look like small red marks near the mouth or eyes, sometimes causing itching or swelling. The real danger, however, is infection from their feces entering the body through the bite or mucous membranes.

Preventing kissing bugs involves sealing your home, removing debris near your yard, and using insect screens or bed nets. If you notice unusual bites or flu-like symptoms after a bite, especially in the southern U.S. or Central America, see a doctor promptly.

Stay safe this summer by learning to recognize and protect against these stealthy pests!