Kissing bug found in Lampasas County

Don’t get too cozy with it; parasites the insect carries can cause Chagas disease
Research from Texas A&M University indicates 24 kissing bugs have been identified in Lampasas County over the last two years. The adult bugs are nocturnal and are most active during the warmer months. COURTESY PHOTO | TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT
Research from Texas A&M University indicates 24 kissing bugs have been identified in Lampasas County over the last two years. The adult bugs are nocturnal and are most active during the warmer months. COURTESY PHOTO | TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT

More than half of all kissing bugs are infected with the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which leads to cases of Chagas disease. The insect is confirmed to have a presence in Lampasas County.

AgriLife Extension Agent Heath Lusty said a Kempnerarea resident brought a kissing bug Thursday afternoon to Lusty’s office.

“This is the first one I have ever seen,” Lusty said. “I have heard of them here, but I h…