Texas researchers are seeing an increase in kissing bugs this year, it's not necessarily an endearing sign.
A kiss could kill you! Texas A&M AgriLife Research entomologists say there is an abundant number of kissing bugs here in the state and we need to keep and eye out for them.
About 50%-60% of these insects carry a parasite that can cause potentially fatal Chagas disease in humans and animals.
Acute phase Chagas disease may be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are common for many types of sicknesses, including fever, fatigue, body aches, headache, rash, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Research.
Of those who are infected with the parasite, approximately 30% are at risk of developing chronic Chagas disease.
11 different species of kissing bugs have been documented in the US, with the highest diversity and density in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
Researchers say they've already collected over 300 kissing bug specimens in one location, where just last year, they only found six.
Kissing bugs look fairly similar to cockroaches and are known to feed on mammals' blood.
They can be found throughout Texas especially during the hottest months of the year.
