Kissing bugs carrying Chagas parasite found near Mexico–Texas border

Researchers who sampled insects around El Paso and Las Cruces report that about 84.6% of tested 'kissing bugs' carried the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, and many of the bugs were collected close to homes.

Kissing bugs carrying the parasite that causes Chagas disease have been found near the Mexico–Texas border. Researchers collected insects in the El Paso and Las Cruces area over a 10-month period and tested them for Trypanosoma cruzi. A high proportion of the sampled bugs tested positive. The findings were published in a peer-reviewed journal and were described as relevant to public health in the region. Key findings: - Researchers collected triatomine insects around El Paso and Las Cruces from April 2024 to March 2025 using light traps and laboratory testing methods. - Of 26 bugs tested, 84.6% were positive for the parasite that causes Chagas disease, up from a 63.3% infection rate reported in a 2017 study. - Many of the captured insects were found in or near residential spaces, including under patio furniture, wood piles and in garages, as well as in natural shelters in nearby parks and desert areas. - Chagas disease can progress to a long-term condition and often shows few early symptoms; antiparasitic medicines are known to be more effective in early stages of infection. Summary: The report indicates an increased infection rate among local kissing bugs and their presence in residential areas, which researchers said is important for regional public health awareness. The situation is noted as especially relevant for border states such as Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. Undetermined at this time.