Can Bed Bugs Spread Diseases?
Almost every homeowner fears bed bugs, and their infestation is no less than a nightmare.
Almost every homeowner fears bed bugs, and their infestation is no less than a nightmare. These parasitic pests are more than a nuisance; a bed bug infestation can affect a person physically, mentally, and financially. Bed bugs can be found anywhere, from homes and apartments to hotels and resorts. These nocturnal pests hide during the day in bed frames, box springs, mattress seams, behind wallpaper, dresser tables, cracks and crevices, and other objects lying around the bed and feeding on human blood during the night when they are asleep.
With the rise in the cases of bed bug infestations in the U.S., it is essential to understand the adverse health effects bed bugs can have on an individual. One must also learn how to deal with a bed bug infestation to protect the family from discomfort and health problems.
Do bed bugs spread diseases?
Bed bugs carry several pathogens on their bodies. According to some sources, bed bugs are responsible for diseases like Q-fever, brucellosis, Chagas disease, oriental sores, and Hepatitis B. But there is no documented evidence of bed bugs transmitting these diseases to humans directly. However, bed bugs are notorious for biting humans; their bites and fecal matter can lead to secondary infections. Bed bug bites can lead to:
Anemia
Over time, bed bug bites can result in blood loss, leading to anemia.
Allergies
Some people may have allergies to bed bug droppings and saliva, which can cause asthmatic attacks, itching, burning sensations, rashes, and hives. Allergic reactions in some people may require medical assistance.
Secondary infections
Different people may react differently to bed bug bites. While some may show no reaction, scratching the bed bug bites or failing to keep them clean can result in the formation of welts and can lead to secondary skin infections. These infections are more likely to occur in young children, the elderly, and those who are immunocompromised.
Impact on mental health
Bed bugs can also have emotional and psychological impacts on an individual. Bed bug infestations may lead to anxiety, depression, insomnia, hypervigilance, and nightmares.
Signs of bed bug bites
Here are some telltale signs if one is unsure about having bed bug bites:
Red and itchy bumps with a dark spot at the center.
Bed bug bites are arranged in a linear pattern or a cluster.
Bed bug bites are usually on the hands, face, neck, legs, arms, and shoulders.
Get professional treatment for a bed bug infestation
The best and fastest way to deal with a bed bug infestation is to hire an experienced exterminator. Trained professionals can identify the infested areas and devise a comprehensive plan to treat the bed bugs using several proven methods. Eliminating the bed bugs from the property may require multiple treatment sessions that can go on for three to six weeks. Bed bug exterminators will remove all the bed bugs to ensure the property is safe from the harm of a bed bug infestation.
Bed Bugs Arizona offers a free, in-home bed bug inspection and a one-year warranty on all bed bug services. No obligation. We specialize in apartment communities. Our fast, certified technicians provide the Pro-Treat Plus method of bed bug removal to Phoenix and surrounding cities in a 100-mile plus radius including Flagstaff, Globe, and Casa Grande. Veteran and senior discounts. Call now at (602) 962-8806.
