Thursday, 21 November 2024

Chagas Disease Parasite Can Survive in Dead Kissing Bugs, Study Finds

Close-up overhead view of a dark brown insect, commonly known as a kissing bug, against a white background. Its has a small head and larger, oval-shaped abdomen, with wings folded straight back and held flat atop the abdomen. The outer edge of the abdomen features an alternating brown and beige striped pattern.

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Kissing bugs are commonly found in dog kennels, which can make them hot spots for transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas disease. A study by Texas A&M researchers on transmission risk in dog kennels encountered a surprising finding: a dead kissing bug harboring a still-viable parasite in its gut. The researchers say this complicates management plans, as dogs may still be at risk of acquiring the parasite if they ingest dead kissing bugs. [Read more]

The post Chagas Disease Parasite Can Survive in Dead Kissing Bugs, Study Finds appeared first on Entomology Today.



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