A Parasitic Bug Has Been Spotted Throughout Utah And Its Bite Can Be Deadly

The bug can be infected with T.cruzi, a parasite that transmits Chagas disease. The disease can have some serious complications, and can even cause death.

While the bug is biting and feeding off your blood, it typically poops near that spot. The parasite that carries the Chagas disease lives in the kissing bug's poop, and when you rub your face, you can smear the poop into your eye or mouth. Soon, you'll have millions of parasites swimming in your bloodstream.

Early symptoms of Chagas disease are similar to the flu: fever, vomiting, muscle aches, and diarrhea. One tell-tale sign is a swollen eyelid which is caused by wiping the kissing bug's poop into your eye. If caught early enough, the disease can be treated with an anti-parasitic drug. If it's not treated, Chagas disease is chronic, and you'll suffer its side effects for the rest of your life. Complications include an enlarged heart, colon, or esophagus. You might suffer from abnormal heart rhythm which can eventually cause cardiac arrest and death.

There are 11 species found here in America, and they're usually black or dark brown, with orange, yellow, or red stripes along the edge of their wings. They have long antennae and a cone-shaped head.

The CDC recommends that you inspect your home and yard. Seal up any cracks or gaps in concrete around your house. Use screens on window and doors and repair them if they're torn. Clear rocks or piles of brush away from your property, and store your woodpile in a location away from the house. Have your pets sleep indoors, and keep outdoor areas such as chicken coops as clean as possible.