WGN — The Centers for Disease Control and Protectionis warning residents in the U.S. that the deadly “kissing bug” has made its way to dozens of states, including Illinois.
Chagas disease earned the name, the kissing bug, because the bugs that transmit the disease typically bite people’s faces.
Symptoms can include fatigue, fever, rash and swelling but severe cases can lead to stroke or heart failure. The kissing bug can also make pets sick.
Researchers say the parasite can infect dogs with severe heart disease, although many don’t show symptoms.
NOPE NOPE NOPE. These things fully grown are less than an inch and a half. If ANYTHING touches my face this summer and I don't know what it is, best believe I'll punch myself several times before I let one of these Chagas Disease carrying bugs suck blood out of my face. In fact, NO bug is safe this summer (minus bumble bees and lady bugs) but everything else can catch these hands if they fly anywhere near me. Restricted airspace, bugs. You hear me? Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go shower. - @Traceahamilton