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This bug looks remarkably similar to box elder bugs. If you have box elder trees in your yard you should be familiar with the hordes of bugs produced every year.
The kissing bug carries Chagas, a potentially deadly disease that can be transmitted to people and dogs in contact with the bug. As opposed to box elder bugs, the kissing bug bites, usually around the mouth area so the chances of transmission are low even if bitten because the parasite is in the feces of the kissing bug. Toddlers and dogs may be the most susceptible.
CDC Detail Sheet
