Bed Bugs: Human Blood Feeders
Bed bugs are a class of insects that feed on human blood, usually at night time. They’re small, flat, wingless, and have a reddish-brown color. They’re about the size of an apple seed and when they bite, they can thrive on the blood for several months. Although more readily found in developing countries, bed bugs have been found in five-star hotels. These bugs come to life during the night and usually dwell near places people sleep. They can be found in the seams of mattresses, bed frames, headboards, behind wallpaper, in the cracks and crevices of walls, or near clutter in a room. They’re also found on cruise ships, buses, trains, hotels, and dorm rooms. These bugs will also bite pets. Fortunately, they do not spread diseases. They actually feed on a person’s blood for three to ten minutes before moving on.
This insect is not considered dangerous, but more of an annoyance. When they bite, they affect people by causing excessively itchy skin. A person feels compelled to scratch their skin. Bite marks can usually be found on the neck, arms, hands, face, or any exposed body part while sleeping. The bite marks can be visible, but sometimes don’t appear for a couple weeks. They look similar to a flea or mosquito bite. The area can become swollen and red. Some people have no reaction while others have an allergic reaction. Other symptoms include insomnia and anxiety. Once bitten, an antiseptic cream or antihistamine can help reduce the itch and discomfort.
When an infestation has occurred, there are a few signs to look for. A sweet, musty odor might fill the room and one can see the exoskeletons that bugs shed on their mattresses or on their sheets. They also leave a rusty colored trail of their fecal matter. They are incredible hiders. They also lurk in clothing, bags, and furniture. Anyone who travels frequently or who sleeps in other places where people have slept, are at higher risk for exposure to bed bugs.
When an infestation occurs, insecticide spraying becomes necessary. They do not fly but they move quickly. Females can lay hundreds of eggs. They do not make nests but gather in hiding places. Overtime, they spread and spread. Bed bugs can happen to anyone, even the cleanliest places. Cleaning all linens and vacuuming is important. Sometimes buying a new mattress is necessary. It is also a good idea to check what products are being used when sprayed since this is taking place in your very own bedroom. Hiring a professional can help alleviate the bugs more effectively.
Sleep should not be disrupted, especially by bugs. Even though keeping a clean home won’t entirely prevent bed bugs, making sure to regularly change sheets and check the cracks in walls should be considered. Rest at ease that bed bugs will stay away, but in case they come, they’re not life threatening and can be removed.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3255965/
https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/52/2/200/375202
https://www.npjournal.org/article/S1555-4155(17)30274-X/fulltext
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