Survey and database of kissing bugs (Reduviidae: Triatominae) within the Inland Empire

The assassin bug subfamily Triatominae, or kissing bugs, are vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. In addition to the potential of native Californian species of Triatominae living in woodrat and packrat (Neotoma spp.) nests serving as a Chagas disease reservoir, native kissing bugs also pose a health threat due to a sub-population of people having hypersensitive reactions to their bites. To address growing public concern and fear of native kissing bug bites, we conducted a survey of the diversity and distribution of Triatominae in various habitats, inclusive of highland desert to lowland suburban wilderness areas. Specimens collected were compared with recent historical data of the region. An online Triatominae in Southern California database was created using collected specimen information and georeferenced to facilitate ongoing monitoring. Two populations of Triatoma protracta protracta were tested for Trypanosoma cruzi infection. We found an overall consistent rate of infection with historical data, although some variation in infection rates exists between the populations studied. We also initiated a public outreach for reporting of kissing bug sightings with overall positive results. Our study here provides an updated status of native Californian kissing bugs and established procedures for continued monitoring.