Triatomine bug

Definition

Triatomine bugs are blood-sucking insects known to transmit Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite responsible for Chagas disease. These bugs are commonly found in the Americas, particularly in rural areas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Triatomine bugs are vectors for Trypanosoma cruzi, causing Chagas disease.
2. They are commonly called 'kissing bugs' due to their tendency to bite near the mouth or eyes of sleeping humans.
3. Transmission primarily occurs through contaminated feces of the bug entering bite wounds or mucous membranes.
4. Acute Chagas disease can present with fever, fatigue, body aches, and swelling at the infection site.
5. Chronic Chagas disease can lead to serious heart and digestive system complications.

Review Questions

• What parasite do triatomine bugs transmit?
• Why are triatomine bugs often referred to as 'kissing bugs'?
• What are some potential long-term health effects of chronic Chagas disease?

Related terms

Trypanosoma cruzi: The protozoan parasite transmitted by triatomine bugs that causes Chagas disease.

Chagas Disease: A potentially life-threatening illness caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, often spread via triatomine bug bites.

Vector-Borne Disease: An illness caused by pathogens transmitted through vectors like mosquitoes, ticks, and triatomine bugs.