Source link : https://sandiego365.info/2025/10/29/a-single-kiss-from-this-bug-could-trigger-life-threatening-illnesses-years-later/
A seemingly innocuous bite from a common insect could have devastating health consequences years down the line, health officials warn. Recent reports out of San Diego detail how a ‘kiss’ from this particular bug may transmit bacteria that trigger serious, potentially life-threatening illnesses decades after the initial encounter. Experts are urging increased awareness and preventive measures as investigations shed light on the long-term dangers posed by this overlooked vector.
The hidden dangers of the kissing bug and its long-term health impact
The kissing bug, a nocturnal insect primarily found in the Americas, carries a parasite that can cause Chagas disease, a condition often overlooked due to its silent onset. When the bug bites, it typically feeds on blood around the face or neck, leaving a small, inconspicuous wound. The real danger lies not in the bite itself, but in the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi transmitted through its feces. Over time, infected individuals may develop severe complications such as chronic heart inflammation, digestive issues, and, in extreme cases, sudden cardiac death. These symptoms may not surface until decades after the initial exposure, making early diagnosis and awareness critical.
- Asymptomatic Phase: Most people do not exhibit symptoms for years after infection.
- Cardiac Risks: Can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and aneurysms.
- Digestive Complications: Enlargement of the esophagus and colon impairing digestion.
- Geographic…
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Author : Sophia Davis
Publish date : 2025-10-29 15:11:00
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