High Chagas parasite levels found in Kissing Bugs

A new study from the University of Texas at El Paso has found unusually high concentrations of Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), the parasite that causes Chagas disease, in kissing bugs collected near the U.S.–Mexico border.

For the study, UTEP researchers collected kissing bugs from El Paso County, Tex. and southern New Mexico, including from yards, under garden furniture and firewood.

Of the 26 kissing bugs collected, 22 – or 88.5% – were positive for T. cruzi. A similar study conducted in 2021 by the same team found that only 66% of kissing bugs collected in the region carried the parasite.

Chagas disease, while more common in Latin America, is increasingly being detected in the southern United States. The parasite is transmitted primarily through the feces of triatomine insects, commonly known as kissing bugs, which feed on blood and often enter homes in search of hosts.

Researchers warn that environmental conditions, wildlife reservoirs and human development near border regions may be contributing to higher infection rates, raising concerns about potential human exposure.

Why it matters

If you operate in the Southwest U.S. or service clients who travel, relocate, or own seasonal properties, this news directly affects your role. Increased awareness may lead to more customer questions, inspection requests and concerns about health risks tied to insect activity.

From an operational standpoint, proper identification and differentiation is critical. Kissing bugs are often mistaken for harmless insects. Misidentification can lead to missed opportunities for service or worse, loss of credibility.

There’s also a business angle. As public awareness of vector-borne diseases grows, PMPs who can confidently explain risks, prevention strategies and exclusion techniques position themselves as trusted advisors, not just service providers.

How your business can stay prepared

• Train technicians to properly identify kissing bugs and document sightings.
• Educate customers on reducing attractants, sealing entry points and limiting wildlife harborage near structures.
• Review inspection protocols for homes in high-risk areas, particularly in rural or semi-rural regions.