Summer brings sunshine, outdoor fun, and, unfortunately, a wave of seasonal pests. While ticks and mosquitoes are familiar foes, assassin bugs—also known as “kissing bugs”—are becoming more common and pose a growing concern.

Though many people haven’t heard of them, their bites can carry serious health risks, making it essential to understand how to recognize and avoid them.

What Are Assassin Bugs?

Assassin bugs are blood-sucking insects that feed on both humans and animals. Their bite alone can be irritating, but what makes them especially dangerous is what happens afterward. These bugs often defecate near the site of the bite, allowing parasites to enter the body.

These parasites can cause Chagas disease, a potentially life-threatening illness with symptoms that range from mild discomfort to serious, long-term complications. In some cases, the disease can damage the heart if left untreated.