Kissing Bugs Carrying Chagas Disease Detected in Ohio, Raising Public Health Concerns
Columbus, OH – Health officials in Ohio are alerting residents to the presence of “kissing bugs” – insects that can carry the parasite causing Chagas disease – with recent detections prompting increased surveillance and public awareness campaigns. While cases of Chagas disease remain rare in the United States, the expanding range of these insects poses a growing threat to public health, especially in rural areas.
Chagas disease, a potentially life-threatening illness, affects an estimated 6 to 8 million people in Latin America. Its arrival in the U.S. is linked to increasing travel, migration, and the adaptation of the Triatoma species of kissing bugs to new environments. The ohio Department of Health is working to understand the extent of the infestation and educate the public on preventative measures, as early detection and treatment are crucial to managing the disease’s chronic effects, which can include serious heart and digestive problems.
The kissing bugs, scientifically known as triatominae, are nocturnal and typically feed on the blood of mammals, including humans. They get their nickname from their habit of biting near the mouth or eyes. Infection occurs when the parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi, is transmitted through the bug’s feces, frequently enough when a person rubs the bite wound, introducing the parasite into the bloodstream.
Ohio residents are advised to take precautions to minimize exposure, including sealing cracks and crevices in homes, using screens on windows and doors, and inspecting bedding for bugs. The Ohio Department of Health encourages anyone who encounters a kissing bug to report it to their local health department for identification and potential testing. Further information and resources are available on the department’s website.
