The kissing bug. Sounds sweet, right? Sounds like two bugs falling in love with each other…yet, it’s way more deadly than that. The kissing bug is actually quite dangerous and the bad news for Georgians is that this killer bug has been confirmed within the state. While it has originated throughout various regions in South America, The kissing bug has made its way up through the continental United States, and here is everything you need to know about it.

Upon hearing the term "kissing bug" you’ll probably picture something along the lines of what is seen below, but in truth, the kissing bug is known to be extremely dangerous, and in some cases even deadly.
Flickr 8#X
This isn’t a scare-tactic, Georgians, this is a warning to take extra precautions while you’re out and about during the warmer temperatures because this bug has been confirmed within the state as of this year.
CDC
Kissing bugs, otherwise known as triatomines, carry a parasite called Trypanosoma cruzi that lives in the bug’s intestines and feces.
Flickr Linda Tanner
If you happen to be bitten by the bug or if the feces with the parasite enters your body, then you become infected with the disease known as Chagas disease.
Flickr thetechhimself1
Chagas disease can result in flu-like symptoms—a fever, body aches, a rash, headache, swollen glands, and more.
Flickr Tina Franklin

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However, although the symptoms disappear over time, this disease can still become a chronic illness when it goes untreated.
Flickr José Pablo Orozco Marín
It is important to understand that kissing bugs are nocturnal, so they will come out at night to feed.
Flickr Mike Lewinski
Kissing bugs are often found hiding in cracks and corners, living in wood piles or sheds or in mud or straw, remaining hidden especially throughout the day.
Flickr Ludwig Rupp
It’s not just adults that become infected or are bitten by the bugs either, babies and pets are highly susceptible to infection, too.
Flickr hmmmlargeart
In order to prevent being bitten by the kissing bug make sure to use bug spray liberally, especially when going outside, have your pets sleep indoors with you, repair any damages to screens or cracks within the home, remove debris and leaves from the yard, and make sure to clean all surfaces regularly with a bleach-like solution.
Flickr Judy Gallagher

If you happen to come across a kissing bug or what you think is a kissing bug, use gloves to catch it in a jar and bring it to your local health department. Make sure to clean all the surfaces the bug has touched afterward.

Have you ever seen the kissing bug in Georgia? Share your thoughts about this crazy creature in the comments section! Meanwhile, if you want to know about what other creepy-crawly bugs are in Georgia, have at it!

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