Kissing Bug Endemic in California

These things are nasty blood sucking little vampires. They've

been on the news lately as infections have risen dramatically!

• Where they are found: Kissing bugs are found throughout most of California, especially in rural, foothill, and mountainous areas. 

• Native species: The most common species in California is Triatoma protracta. 

• How they transmit the disease: The parasite that causes Chagas disease is spread through the feces of infected kissing bugs, not the bite itself. If a person scratches the bug's fresh feces into a bite, or into their eyes, nose, or mouth, the parasite can enter the body.

• Then what? You have parasites in the body that can eventually borough their way into your body whereby there is no treatment available.

• You're Done: They, over time (about 10 years I've seen on the net), attack your heart to the point of eventually stoppage - DEATH! 

• Chagas disease is a significant health concern in the state, with estimates of 70,000 to 100,000 Californians infected

Another good reason to get your screens repaired or replaced ASAP