Triatomine Bug Control

Triatomine bugs are parasites that suck blood from humans and animals and they have recently been identified to cause the dreaded Chagas disease. They are similar to bed bugs, but generally much larger and longer and thinner. Chagas disease occurs mainly in Latin America, is incurable and in its chronic phase may cause damage to the heart and intestines. The bugs occur in both forested and dry areas in the Americas. These bugs like to live in the burrows and nests of wild animals and birds as they feed on them during the night when the animals are asleep. A number of species have adapted to living in and near houses, where there is a presence of domesticated animals such as chickens, cattle, goats, cats and dogs. They normally hide in dark crevices during the day staying close to their host. Their bite is not usually that sore but in some cases severe itching and other skin problems occur afterwards. The unfortunate thing about the Triatomine Bug is that it prefers to feed on blood from the face and it defecates straight after feeding, so the bites can often be contaminated with faecal matter which spread the Chagas disease. These bugs can also cause anemia in extreme circumstances.

Preventing the spread of the bugs must be the first order of the day. Having your pets treated with insecticide dips will kill the bugs that are clinging on to their bodies. Taking them to the vet is also a good measure to take. Spraying the walls and roofs of houses with insecticides has been the most common form of control measure for the Triatomine bugs. Cleaning the possible hiding places and spraying with insecticide can help control and eliminate these bugs. Fumigation has also been popular in most areas with heavy infestation. Insecticidal paint and the use of impregnated sheeting have also been used for homes in Latin America that have seen Triatomine bug infestations.

The extensive use of chemicals in containing the Triatomine bug infestation, along with the severity of the disease that the Triatomine bug can spread, really means that you will require the help of professionals if you are suspicious of an infestation. Uneven coverage and possible mishandling can result when people who are not trained properly in handling chemicals take charge of this effort. Handling chemicals always carry some risk and even the safest insecticides should not be applied without observing the proper precautions. On top of that, different wall surfaces will require different techniques of insecticide applications and formulations. It is best to allow the trained pest controllers to carry out the job for you. The danger that Triatomine bugs carry with them is not worth the risk you will take if you are not fully aware of the treatments that will eradicate these parasites.