The kissing bug is not as cute as the name sounds. Also sometimes referred to as the vampire or conenose bug, it is found in rural Central and South America and has made its way as far north as Delaware. While the bite of the bug itself does not cause disease, this unpleasant pest can transmit Chagas disease by defecating near its bite site, often around its victim’s mouth or eyes. Natasha shares the unsavory details about kissing bugs on Mass Appeal, which you can watch here: Braman Bug of the Month: Kissing Bugs.
Traveling South? What to Know about Kissing Bugs
