Bed Bugs Public Health

Raising The Alarm On Bed Bugs And Public Health

Bed bugs have long been known to infest our homes. Bed bugs are mentioned in the medieval European texts and in the classical Greek writings, as early as the period of Aristotle.

They are and have always been unwelcome guests to our most private rooms.

When news of infestations, media stories of bed bugs and public health concerns are broadcast, too often more fear is transmitted than sound information.

So what is the truth about bed bugs and public health? Should people be alarmed at the threat of bed bugs and the public's health?

To get a better understanding of bed bugs and public health issues, we must first know about bed bugs.

Bed bugs are miniscule, brown, flat insects that feed on the blood of humans. There are also certain species of bed bugs that feed on wild animals such as bats and birds.

Because a blood-sucking creature is being found in our most sacred room, the bedroom, fears about bed bugs and public health concerns is what can raise a sense of panic. Lack of information often gives the wrong impression on bed bugs and public health.

The bed bugs and public health risks associated with these parasites are often superficial.

The usual result of bed bug bites is itchy, swelling welts on the exposed skin areas during sleep. There are creams that can reduce the swelling and itchiness within minutes of application.

Another result is an allergic reaction to the parasite. The bed bug injects a form of animal anesthesia before sucking the blood, so that we will not notice them. An allergic reaction to the bug's saliva can occur and may need medical treatment.

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 insecticide dusting. But the homeowner should get a professional in executing this particular bed bugs and public health remedy.

A reasonable health concern that the public may have is whether bed bug bites carry diseases. This is a valid question since other blood-sucking insects spread disease like malaria, dengue and and Lyme Disease.

Studies have shown that bed bugs ARE NOT transmitters of diseases. There are documented cases of viruses or bacteria being transmitted through bed bug bites.

Another bed bugs and public health issue is the effects of prolonged exposure to bed bug bites. Do the bites damage a person's over-all health?

The fact is, the most extreme results from prolonged bed bug bites are embarrassment for the marks and loss of sleep.

Though the bed bugs and public health concerns about the bites are not a cause for panic, if you are being bitten you may still need to consult with a doctor.

The itchy, swelling welts left by these critters are often scratched to the point of infection and there are sensitive people who have allergic reactions.

Contrary to the popular notion that bed bugs live in filthy homes and in dirty furniture, they don’t. All these insects need is a warm temperature and dark areas to live in near their host.

Because bed bugs are often found in motels and the like, public health official have issued guidelines that hotels, motels, apartments and other lodging facilities should follow. This is a matter of sanitary procedures.

The recommended solution for commercial establishments is to have their furniture pre-treated for bed bugs. There is a cost to do this, but just like termites, the public will appreciate this preventative action against these creatures.

Should we really be alarmed about bed bugs infestation? No and yes. Bed bugs are not a major threat to the public health, but they are a major annoyance to the individual!