Bed Bugs and Public Health

Do we need to raise the alarm on bed beds and public health?

Until a few years ago bed bugs were believed to be eradicated from this planet, nothing could be further from the truth.  These unwelcome guests have made a come back in recent years and are now invading our homes.

With news of infestation, stories of bed bugs and public health concerns spread like wild fire. What is the truth, should people be alarmed about bed bugs and public health?

To get a better understanding of bed bugs and public health issues, we must know about these creatures first. The lack of information and the fact that these blood sucking insects are commonly found in our most sacred room – the bed room – raises panic amongst people.

Bed bugs are small, brown, flat insects that mainly feed on the blood of humans.

The bed bugs and public health risks concerning these parasites are often superficial. Most people do not even notice any symptoms, because of the way that the bed bug injects some form of animal anaesthesia into the skin before sucking the blood. Some people may experience itchy, swelling welts on the exposed skin areas during sleep as a result of the bites.  There are creams that can reduce the swelling and itchiness within minutes of application.

While bed bugs and public health issues are real, they are not grave enough to solicit widespread panic. Bed bugs infestations can be treated with insecticide sprays and dusting. The best way to get rid of bed bugs is to call on a professional who has experience in exterminating these creatures.

The main public health concern raised is that bed bugs may be carriers of diseases like the mosquitoes that are the culprit of a number of diseases such as malaria, dengue and AIDS. However, so far studies have shown that there is no documented case of bed bugs transmitting diseases.

Another public health concern is the effects to people’s over-all health of prolonged exposure to bed bugs bites. The fact is the most extreme damage is embarrassment for the marks and loss of sleep.

Though the bed bugs and public health concerns about these bites are not a cause for panic, it is nonetheless wise to consult a doctor. The itchy, swelling welts left by these critters can be mistaken for mosquito bites and that may be the reason for the mix up. It is best to let bed bugs and public health issues be resolved first before making conclusions.

Bed bugs like a warm temperature and like to live close to their host regardless of how pristine a person’s house is. This is contrary to the popular belief that these insects live in filthy homes and furniture.

However, the bed bugs and public health infestation issue is a serious matter and requires attention as these infestations can quickly spread from one home to another because of the creature’s ability to travel. People should also be cautious when buying second hand bedding and furniture.

Most often, bed bugs are found in motels. Once a bed bug clings to your belongings, they travel with you in your luggage. Unconsciously you have contributed to the bed bugs and public health infestation issue.

Information about this public health issue has been sent out to hotels, motels, apartments and other lodging facilities. The recommended solution to prevent such infestation is to have the furniture pre-treated for bed bugs. It will be costly just like termites; however you will not regret protecting yourself against these creatures.

Should we really be alarmed about bed bugs infestation? Yes. The body may react so little to these parasites but when it comes to being invaded by these tiny creatures, people should fight back to have their dignity returned.