BLACKSBURG (WSLS 10) - After a potentially dangerous bug is spotted in a growing number of states, many Virginians are wondering if they are safe from the bite of the 'kissing bug.'
The bug gained social media fame as multiple news outlets, including WSLS 10, posted articles online citing the the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which reported sightings of the bug in many southeastern states, including Virginia.
Recommended Videos
(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v2.3"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));
**UPDATE** Many of you are leaving comments about seeing these bugs. Send us photos and where you live if you see one!...
Posted by WSLS 10 / WSLS.com on Tuesday, November 24, 2015
The so-called 'kissing bug' is actually named the Eastern Cone Nose bug or triatomine bug and is common in South and Central America, but rare in the U.S.
In its report, the CDC said the bug can carry a disease called Chagas, which can be fatal to humans if left untreated.
Virginia Tech entomologist Eric Day said, in 30 years, he has only seen three kissing bugs come through his lab. He said because the kissing bug looks similar to so many other insects, people often get confused.
Kissing bugs can often be differentiated by the pinkish-red markings down their sides.
[gallery columns="4" size="medium" ids="135752,135753,135754,135755"]
If you think you have a kissing bug on your hands and want to be sure, contact your county extension agent.