NMSU Kissing Bug Surveillance

The NMSU Biology Department has started a kissing bug surveillance program here in Las Cruces. Data collected in past years show that these insects are present in the Talavera area, among others.

NMSU is interested in studying these kissing bugs because they are known carriers of the human parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which can cause a severe disease called Chagas.

NMSU is asking individuals to report if they have seen these bugs, and, if possible, collect them and give them to NMSU. NMSU will test if those specific insects carry the parasite to inform residents of potential risks of infection.

See below for instructions and NMSU contact information.