Beware! A Potentially Deadly, Blood Sucking Pest Has Invaded Texas

When I talk about potentially deadly bloodsuckers invading Texas, you probably think I mean mosquitos (or Silicon Valley transplants), but there's another bug on the block whose bite can cause you a world of hurt, and it's arrived just in time for summer.

KISS COMFORT GOODBYE

Everyone's getting outdoors as the temperatures climb, but whether you’re barbecuing, visiting the lakes, or taking a nice snooze under a tree, I can’t stress it enough that Texans need to still be cautious of their surroundings.

The Triatomine Bug, also known as the "Kissing Bug", has made its mark in Texas as being a bloodthirsty pest that Texans need to be aware of.

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WHY IS THE KISSING BUG SUCH A THREAT TO TEXANS?

According to the Caller-Times, even though this insect has been named after the loving act of kissing, you can find yourself in a lot of danger if bitten by the potentially deadly pest.

This disgusting creature can carry parasites capable of infecting people and small animals with Chagas Disease, often referred to as a silent disease. When you see the kissing bug, it has certain similarities to the stink bug, but is distinguishable by its pointed snout.

DON'T BE FOOLED BY THE NAME, THIS BUG IS DEADLY!

There are studies that indicate between 50% and 64% of Kissing Bugs carry the parasite that causes this disease, which is considered a major neglected tropical disease according to the US National Library of Medicine.

Symptoms of the disease include flu-like symptoms, rash, loss of appetite, vomiting, and enlarged glands. People with Chagas are at risk of heart failure. Get all the details here.

We want all Texans to make sure that they enjoy their summer, but if you come across a Kissing Bug, kill it. There’s no need to allow this pest to ruin your summer.