Avoiding the Kissing Bug
In February, not only do a lot of people want to express their loved one’s with affection and flowers, but also bugs! You would think that a pest with a name like “kissing bug” would be the official Valentine’s Day mascot. But this insect is everything that Cupid is not.
A parasite known to cause Chagas disease is carried by kissing bugs. Flu-like symptoms and a rash around the parasite’s entry site are the only side effects of this infection; occasionally, more serious conditions like intestinal and heart difficulties might arise.
Few kissing bug bite victims exhibit any kind of reaction, and the majority don’t remember being bitten. Minor symptoms may appear in those with sensitive skin or those who have allergies to the bug’s saliva. Although there are kissing bugs in the southern United States, thankfully, Chagas disease cases are uncommon. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the parasite affects about 300,000 persons in the US.
Prevention:
Use effective pest prevention techniques throughout your house to avoid coming into contact with this bug. Replace the weather stripping, patch any loose mortar around the windows and basement, and seal any gaps or openings that allow air to enter.
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