kissing bug

insect, subfamily Triatominae

Also known as: Triatominae, triatomine bug

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Last updated

July 21, 2026

Quick Summary

Kissing bugs, also known as triatomine bugs, are a subfamily of assassin bugs. These insects are medically significant because some species can transmit Chagas disease to humans and other animals.1

Kissing bugs transmit Chagas disease by depositing the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi in their feces on a person's skin while feeding on blood. The parasite can then enter the bloodstream through mucous membranes or breaks in the skin, often after the bite is scratched. Chagas disease is endemic in Central and South America and can cause serious health issues, including heart problems. Prevention focuses on controlling the insect carriers.234

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assassin bug
Predatory behavior
…known as triatomine bugs or kissing bugs. Some species of triatomine bugs—particularly members of the genera Panstrongylus, Rhodnius, and Triatoma—are carriers of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease. Triatomines can survive in a variety of habitats, including underneath rocks and bark, inside the nests of other animals,…
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…known as triatomine bugs or kissing bugs. Some species of triatomine bugs—particularly members of the genera Panstrongylus, Rhodnius, and Triatoma—are carriers of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease. Triatomines can survive in a variety of habitats, including underneath rocks and bark, inside the nests of other animals,…
Read More