Most people in Wallingford, Pennsylvania, have never seen a kissing bug, and that’s probably for the best. Although this insect resembles many others physically, it can be deadly.
Triatomine bugs are blood-sucking insects that carry the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, enabling them to transmit Chagas disease to animals. These insects tend to bite people around the face, leading to their popular nickname: kissing bugs.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that Chagas disease, in the early stage, often goes unnoticed, with mild symptoms. Chronic infection, however, can cause serious heart and digestive system issues.
While previously common in South America, Central America, and Mexico, these bugs have been reportedly seen in the United States, as well. Concentrations of kissing bugs remain higher in southern states, but these insects have also been seen in Pennsylvania. However, these bugs currently hold little threat.
“Kissing bugs aren’t a huge threat if you know how to stay safe,” junior Mateo Laurent said.
Although not commonly found in Pennsylvania, as sightings of kissing bugs increase, Laurent finds that, as a Boy Scout, it’s crucial to understand the importance of staying calm, alert, and prepared when outside.
“If a giant bug jumps onto your cheek, you’re going to want to freak out, and you may not know what to do,” Laurent said. “But if you can search online, go to the doctor, or try to figure out what it is, maybe you can treat it before you get symptoms of a disease, if something bites you.”
This advice can seem intuitive; however, in times of panic, it may not be memorable.
“[Staying calm] is very much common sense when it comes to rabid animals, but maybe not so much as for kissing bugs or ticks with Lyme disease,” Laurent said.
Most of all, understanding the necessity of staying aware and educated of the environment is crucial to the effort of staying safe during outdoor activities such as camping and hiking.
“The Scout Motto is very much ‘Be Prepared,’ and we do our part to be as aware and prepared for situations,” Laurent said. “When you come across challenges or you’re going into unexpected territory, you should be prepared for things like that.”
To be prepared, Laurent emphasizes the importance of conducting research and staying current. When you are well-aware of your surroundings, it’s easier to stay safe.
“Doing research on native snakes is something I do sometimes when I go to a different state for camping,” Laurent said. “Doing that research beforehand and being prepared can help.”
