Beware the Kissing Bug: A Dangerous Insect Found in Delaware

Researchers from the University of Delaware (UD) have discovered a kissing bug in New Castle County that carries a potentially deadly parasite. This finding, published in the “American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene,” marks the first time this insect has been reported in the state.

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What is a Kissing Bug?

Despite its cute name, the kissing bug (Triatoma sanguisuga) is far from harmless. This black-and-orange insect, also known as the Cone Nose bug, often bites people around their mouths while they sleep. The bite is painless, so most people don’t even realize they’ve been bitten.

Chagas Disease: The Hidden Danger

When a kissing bug bites, it defecates near the bite wound. The feces contain a parasite called Trypanosoma cruzi, which can enter the body through the bite or by being rubbed into the eyes or mouth. This parasite causes Chagas disease, a serious illness that can lead to severe heart and gastrointestinal issues, and even death.

Most people infected with Chagas disease don’t show symptoms immediately. Some may experience mild flu-like symptoms, but the disease can remain undetected for years. Long-term complications can be severe and sometimes fatal.

UD’s Discovery

UD researchers, led by assistant professor Jennifer K. Peterson, studied the kissing bug for about a year. They started their research after a resident found a bug on a pillow in July 2023 and another in the kitchen in October 2023. Both bugs were confirmed as kissing bugs and one tested positive for Trypanosoma cruzi. Fortunately, the residents did not contract Chagas disease.

Previous Sightings in Delaware

Kissing bugs have been reported in Delaware before. In July 2017, Texas A&M University received a report of a suspected kissing bug in Kent County. However, the insect was identified as a milkweed bug and was destroyed before further testing. In July 2018, a child in Kent County was bitten by a kissing bug but did not develop Chagas disease.

Identifying a Kissing Bug

Adult kissing bugs are about 0.75 to 1.25 inches long, with a distinctive band around the edge of their body striped with orange or red markings. They have long, thin legs and distinctive mouthparts, earning them the nickname “Cone Nose bug.”

Protecting Yourself from Kissing Bugs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends several measures to protect against kissing bugs:

• Lighting: Place outdoor lights away from homes, dog kennels, and chicken coops, and turn off unnecessary lights.
• Home Maintenance: Remove trash, wood, and rock piles from around the home, and clear out bird and animal nests.
• Sealing Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks and gaps around windows, air conditioners, walls, roofs, doors, and crawl spaces. Close chimney flues when not in use and use screens on doors and windows.
• Pet Safety: Keep pets indoors at night and maintain clean outdoor pet areas.

The discovery of the kissing bug in Delaware is a reminder of the importance of being vigilant against this dangerous insect. By taking preventative measures, you can reduce the risk of Chagas disease and protect yourself and your family.

References

• University of Delaware’s UDaily, June 2024
• “American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene”
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Texas A&M University
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• American Society of Microbiology