From the Research
Bed bugs do not transmit diseases to humans. Despite causing uncomfortable bites that can lead to itching, skin irritation, and occasionally allergic reactions, bed bugs have not been scientifically proven to transmit any infectious diseases between humans 1. This is notable because many other blood-feeding insects like mosquitoes and ticks are known disease vectors. The reason bed bugs don't transmit diseases appears to be related to their feeding patterns and biology - they don't inject saliva back into the host during feeding like mosquitoes do, and pathogens don't seem to survive or replicate effectively in their digestive systems.
Key Points to Consider
- Bed bug bites are often painless, but can cause pruritic, erythematous maculopapules, and occasionally bullous eruptions 1
- Reactions to bed bug bites are self-limited, and treatment is mainly symptomatic, using topical pramoxine, oral antihistamines, and topical corticosteroids 1
- Bed bug infestations can cause significant psychological distress, social stigma, and a substantial socioeconomic burden to society 1
- The control of bed bugs is challenging and should encompass a multidisciplinary approach utilizing nonchemical means of control and the judicious use of insecticides 2
Management and Control
- Integrated pest management, including monitoring devices, nonchemical and chemical treatments, is essential for the eradication of bed bugs 1
- Nonchemical interventions, such as keeping affected areas clean and free of clutter, vacuuming, and washing linens with hot water, can be effective in controlling bed bug infestations 1
- Chemical interventions, including the use of insecticides, should be used with caution to prevent over-exposure and toxicity, especially if there are young children around 1
Recent Studies
- A recent study found that Sommières earth demonstrated efficacy ranging from 75% to 100% in permanent and short exposures against bed bugs, similar to the efficacy of diatomaceous earth from a pest management company 3
- Another study investigated the transcriptomic response of bed bugs to immune challenges, including exposure to an entomopathogen, environmental bacteria, and a human pathogen, and found that bed bugs have a highly robust immune system that may contribute to their inability to transmit diseases 4