Reports of a potentially disease-carrying bug are spreading across the country

Thursday, June 20, 2019 at 10:25 AM

By The Center for Disease Control and Protection

Known as the deadly “kissing bugs.”

 Reports of a potentially disease-carrying bug are spreading across the country.

The Center for Disease Control and Protection recently issued a warning about triatomine bugs, better known as deadly “kissing bugs.”

They’ve been spotted in 12 different states, including Indiana.

They’re known to crawl around the mouth and eyes, biting people while they sleep.

They can also transmit a disease called “chagas.” Some of the symptoms of chagas are fever, fatigue, swelling, and a rash, but it can be more serious causing strokes or even heart failure. Over time, it can cause nerve damage.

Your pets aren’t safe from the triatomine either, as Chagas can give them heart disease.

But the bug has to bite a person or animal already infected with chagas to share it, and officials say Indiana has never reported a case of the disease.

More from Local News

Events

Local News

Gov. Braun Urges Precautions to Avoid Drowning Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

Drowning is the leading cause of injury or death for children ages 1 to 4 years

DNR: Make Water Safety a Priority

The DNR has provided some boating safety tips to remember this summer.

Jefferson County Justice Treatment and Prevention Announces 2026 Grant Applications Available

Committed to the prevention and reduction of the use or abuse of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs

Local Sports

Clock Adjustments Addressed to Support HS Basketball Officials in 2026-27

Guidelines to help game officials manage the game clock at the end of each quarter have been updated.

Local Sports for May 15-16, 2026

Any missing scores or to report a score email news@953wiki.com

Girls Tennis Sectional Revealed

Shawe draws Host Scottsburg in Match #1 Southwestern and Madison meet in Match #2