The Kissing Bug

The kissing bug is the insect that carries the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. After Hernández's aunt, Tía Dora, dies from the effects of the associated kissing bug disease, Hernández becomes curious to learn more about the insect. However, she remains terrified of the bug, as she knows the terrifying dangerous it can cause the human body. Throughout the text, Hernández comes into closer and closer proximity with the bug. The more she studies it, the less guilty the insect appears. In fact, Hernández even remarks on their beautiful appearances.

Trypanosoma cruzi

Trypanosoma cruzi is the parasite that causes the kissing bug disease. Dr. Carlos Chagas first discovered the parasite in 1909 and named it after his mentor, Oswald Cruz. The parasite is primarily carried by kissing bugs, insects who bite the mouths of humans and mammals. The bugs then defecate, leaving the...