Kissing bug sounds like it might be a cute nickname. But the insects are parasitic, with a preference for drinking blood from the face — especially the lips and eyes.
The triatomine bug, often called the kissing bug, carries a parasite that causes Chagas disease, which can cause severe heart and digestive problems. Triatomine bugs are found in North Carolina, but don’t panic. Experts say the odds of contracting Chagas from a kissing bug in North Carolina are slim, and that residents don’t need to worry.
About 8 million people, including an estimated 280,000 in the United States, have Chagas disease, according to the CDC. Many are unaware they have it. Chagas cases are usually found in Central and South America, and along the United States border.
North Carolina risk
Christopher Hayes, an assistant professor and extension specialist at NC State, said North Carolinians don’t need to worry, though they may occasionally see kissing bugs…