Chagas disease, which is a potentially deadly condition transmitted by the kissing bug, is now considered endemic in the US, more prevalent in places like Southern California. Experts estimate that approximately 45,000 people in Los Angeles County are infected, with fewer than 2% of them aware that they carry the parasite. However, research is still ongoing to determine the exact number of people infected with Chagas disease.
While Chagas disease is historically endemic to Latin America, some T. cruzi–capable kissing bug species are native to the southern U.S., and sporadic cases of local transmission have been documented. The pathogens and vectors have existed in the Americas for millennia, but modern public awareness and surveillance, particularly in places like California, have increased only in recent years.
With Chagas disease making headlines in California, many residents are wondering what it means for them. In this blog, we’ll break down how to spot kissing bugs, what the actual risk of Chagas disease is in California, and practical steps you can take to stay safe.
What is Chagas Disease?
Chagas disease is a parasitic infection caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, commonly referred to as T. cruzi. It can occur in people, dogs, and other mammals. Kissing bugs are a vector, as they can carry the parasite that causes the disease in both people and animals.
There are two stages of Chagas disease; the first phase is called the “acute phase,” and the second is called the “chronic phase.”
The acute phase may include symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Headache
- Swelling at the bite site
- Fatigue
People commonly don’t think much of these symptoms during the acute phase, which makes it challenging to diagnose Chagas disease. After the parasite T. cruzi enters the body, approximately 1 in 3 people develops the chronic phase of Chagas disease. The chronic phase can develop over several years, with some people living with it for decades after the parasite has entered their body. The chronic phase can cause heart problems or digestive issues, but many people remain without symptoms.
Since symptoms from both the acute and chronic phases can overlap with those of many other conditions, the only way to confirm a diagnosis is through a blood test. If you think you have been exposed, discuss screening with your doctor.
How Do Kissing Bugs Spread Chagas Disease?
These bugs feed on blood throughout their entire lives and can contract the T. cruzi parasite by feeding on the blood of an animal or person already infected with the parasite. After feeding, they’ll carry the disease in their gut. It’s essential to understand that the parasite is only present in the feces of the kissing bug, not in their saliva or bite.
There are a few ways people can get Chagas disease:
- If kissing bug feces enter someone’s body, the parasite could infect the person.
- While feeding, some species of kissing bugs poop; if someone scratches the kissing bug feces into the bite, they could get sick.
- The parasite can also enter someone’s body through their eyes or mouth; if someone accidentally rubs kissing bug feces in those areas, they could become infected.
More rare cases include:
- Receiving blood or an organ transplant from an infected donor can lead to someone getting Chagas disease.
- During pregnancy or childbirth, if the mother is infected with Chagas, they can pass it down to their children.
Are There Kissing Bugs in California?
Yes, there are 4 species of kissing bugs in California that can spread Chagas disease. The most common is Triatoma protracta, which is often found in the canyons and foothills of California. One study found that 28% of these bugs in Southern California and 55% in Northern California are infected with T. cruzi, which can cause Chagas disease.
Should you be concerned about contracting Chagas disease in California? Fortunately, these kissing bugs in California often don’t defecate while biting and usually do so after leaving the bite area. Chagas disease is very rare in California, since you can’t get it from a simple bite of these bugs.
How Did Chagas Disease Spread to California?
You might be surprised to learn that, although cases in California are rare, kissing bugs capable of carrying the parasite have been present in the state for a long time. What’s new is the rising awareness—and that’s why Chagas disease has become such a hot topic recently.
Chagas disease in California is linked to a mix of local ecology and global migration. On the regional level, kissing bugs have been present in parts of the state for a long time, with reports dating back to the 1950s, when they were found at summer camps in Griffith Park. At the same time, Los Angeles is home to a large Latin American community, and research has shown that some residents were likely infected before moving to the U.S., where Chagas disease is more common in their countries of origin.
However, it’s essential to note again that kissing bugs and the parasites they can carry have been present in the U.S. for thousands of years. The native species that transmit the disease in the U.S., including California, are usually different from those in Latin America.
What Do California Kissing Bugs Look Like?
Kissing bugs are typically 0.5 to 1 inch long, with flat, oval-shaped bodies and a distinct cone-shaped head. Their color ranges from dark brown to black with orange, yellow, or red bands or markings along the edges of their abdomen. They also have distinctive, slender mouthparts tucked away under their body.
Kissing bugs are nocturnal and prefer to hide in cracks, gaps, and dark areas during the day. Familiar hiding places include under porches and decks, inside woodpiles, in attics and crawl spaces, and around pet bedding. They are attracted to light at night, so windows and porch lights can also serve as points of entry.
3 Kissing Bug Look-Alikes in California
There are a few other types of bugs in California that can be easily mistaken for kissing bugs:
1. Wheel Bug
These large assassin bugs have a spiny, cog-like crest on their backs that resembles a gear wheel, hence their name. They are predators of other insects, not blood-feeders, and they move more slowly than kissing bugs.
^BWestern corsair^b (^IRasahus thoracicus^i). Also known as the orangespotted assassin bug, the Western corsair predates and feeds on other insects. It is particularly useful for protecting crops susceptable to these insects.
2. Western Corsair
Another member of the assassin bug family, the Western corsair is slimmer with a shinier, black-and-orange body. Like kissing bugs, they have long heads and beaks, but corsairs feed on other insects and won’t transmit Chagas disease.
3. Leaf-Footed Bug
These plant-feeding insects get their name from the flat, leaf-shaped extensions on their hind legs. They’re often seen around gardens, orchards, and crops. Unlike kissing bugs, they have a wider body and are harmless to people.
The easiest way to tell kissing bugs apart from these look-alikes is by their distinct cone-shaped heads, long, slender legs, and striped edges along their abdomens. While other insects may look similar at first glance, only kissing bugs are blood-feeders, so if you spot one indoors or near where you sleep, it’s worth taking a closer look.
How to Identify Kissing Bug Bites
As mentioned previously, Chagas disease can’t be spread by a kissing bug’s bite, since it’s only present in their feces. Fortunately, California kissing bugs rarely poop near the bite area. However, it’s still essential to check for and monitor any bites. Here are a few signs that may indicate a kissing bug bite:
- Minor, red marks that resemble mosquito or flea bites
- Often appear in clusters or lines, since kissing bugs may bite more than once while feeding
- Usually, painless at first, which is why they often go unnoticed
- It may become itchy, swollen, or irritated later on
- Sometimes located on exposed skin, especially the face, arms, or hands, during sleep
A bite mark can help you identify whether you’ve had contact with a kissing bug in the first place, and it’s a good reminder to watch for any unusual symptoms. While the chance of contracting Chagas disease from a California kissing bug is extremely low, being aware of bites gives you peace of mind and helps you take action early if you notice anything concerning.
Kissing bug bites are painless, but you may experience the following symptoms:
- Itching
- Swelling
- Tiny bloodstains on your sheets or pillow
- A kissing bug in your bed or on your pillow
The bite mark should go away after a week.
How to Treat a Kissing Bug Bite
If you get bitten by a kissing bug, you can do the following:
- Wash the bite with soap and water
- Use anti-itch cream to soothe the itch
- Use a cold pack to reduce swelling
If you’re worried about Chagas disease, although very rare in California, ask a doctor to check your bite.
How to Prevent Kissing Bugs in California
While professional help is recommended, there are several steps homeowners can take to reduce the likelihood of kissing bugs entering their home or business:
- Seal cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and floors.
- Remove woodpiles and other debris near your property.
- Put screens in your windows.
- Clean your indoor cat or dog beds often.
- Turn off outdoor lights after sunset to prevent attracting kissing bugs.
Schedule regular pest inspections at your property to ensure kissing bugs don’t enter your California property.
Combat California Kissing Bugs with Professional Help
The most effective way to combat kissing bugs in California is to find a permanent solution through a reputable pest control company or exterminator. These pests are resilient and can be challenging to eliminate without specialized treatment, so relying solely on DIY methods is often insufficient.
Preventive Pest Control in Southern California specializes in finding and eliminating pests of all kinds, including California kissing bugs. Our team offers both residential and commercial pest control services, ensuring your property is protected from these pests. By conducting thorough inspections, we can identify entry points, detect hidden infestations, and implement targeted treatment plans that effectively eliminate kissing bugs and prevent their return.
Whether you need pest control in the Inland Empire or aggressive pest control in Orange County, our team can quickly assess and treat the issue before it worsens. We utilize proven methods and environmentally responsible products to safeguard your family, pets, and property, while eliminating the threat of kissing bugs. Our team also offers guidance on preventative measures, helping you understand how to maintain a safe, bug-free environment over the long term. Contact us today to ensure kissing bugs can’t enter your property year-round!
If you are having trouble with any kind of pest, now is the time to act. Contact Preventive Pest Control today to schedule a comprehensive inspection and take proactive steps against these dangerous bugs. Are kissing bugs in California a risk you can’t afford to ignore? Let our experts provide peace of mind and safeguard your property before the problem escalates.