Posted in Pennsylvania
July 21, 2019
A Parasitic Bug Has Been Spotted Throughout Pennsylvania And Its Bite Can Be Deadly
Summer brings with it its fair share of insects – from mosquitoes to bees. Western Pennsylvania has also had to deal with an onslaught of cicadas this year, which are noisy but harmless to humans. However, there is one bug – the so-called kissing bug – that’s been spotted throughout Pennsylvania. You can protect yourself from the parasite that causes Chagas Disease by taking a few precautions.
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Fortunately, the little girl did not get sick but the bug, also known as the triatomine parasite, can lead to Chagas Disease, which can be fatal.



Humans aren’t the only victims of kissing bugs; the blood sucking bugs feed on most mammals, reptiles, and birds.

Worried about finding the dreaded kissing bug indoors? Beds – for both humans and dogs – attract the kissing bug. If you have mice or other rodents, they’ll also attract the bug.

Symptoms of the acute disease (which generally passes with treatment) often include swelling in the area you were bitten, swelling of the eyelids, fatigue, headaches, and loss of appetite, according to the Mayo Clinic.

If you suspect you’ve been bitten by the kissing bug, consult with your doctor as soon as possible. Fortunately, not everyone who is bitten will develop Chagas Disease, and not every kissing bug carries the tiny parasite that causes the disease.


Do you know of any cases of the kissing bug in Pennsylvania? Join the conversation in the comments! Are you in one of the areas where the cicadas reemerged this summer? Click here to read more.