Bed Bugs

(Photo credit to Pestworld.org)

There are two species of bed bugs that are closely associated with and feed on humans, namely Cimex lectularius (common bed bug) and Cimex hemipterus (tropical bed bug). The common bed bugs are widely found in the temperate regions of the world, while tropical bed bugs are widely distributed in tropical regions. Both species are currently found in Hawaii. It is difficult to differentiate both species. Their identification requires a skilled professional with the help of a microscope. In general, the adult bed bugs are oval-shaped, wingless, have flattened body and 4-segmented antennae. The size of an adult bed bug is approximately 5mm. The nymphs are nearly colorless and resemble the adult but much smaller in size. However, the size and the color of bed bugs may change after taking a blood meal. The nymphs and adults (both male and female) will feed on blood in order to grow and survive. There are five nymphal stages in bed bugs development and each stage requires a blood meal to molt. They approach their human hosts only to feed and do not stay long with humans. Bed bugs usually feed at night and hide during the day. Although bed bugs typically feed on human, they also feed on other mammals (i.e. chickens, cats, dogs, and birds) including pets. They can starve and survive without food for a long period of time (~1 year).

(Photo credit to National Pesticide Information Center)

Bed bugs do not transmit human disease. Bed bug bite reactions vary from person to person and sometimes could be misdiagnosed as scabies, chickenpox, allergic reaction, or mosquito bite. Some common bed bug bite characteristics:

• Painless
• Slightly reddish lump or swelling
• May form a blister
• Most common on arms, shoulders, and neck
• Bites rarely occur on the palms or soles of the feet
• Itch often ranging from moderate to intense, lasting from few hours to a few days

Potential sites of bed bugs infestations:

• Hotels
• Motels
• Backpack lodges
• Apartments
• Hostels
• Theaters
• Private home
• Trains and buses
• Cabins
• Laundries
• Restaurants
• Cruise ships
• Hospitals
• Day care centers
• Office buildings
• Many more……

Prevention of Bed Bugs

• It is important to detect a bed bugs infestation as early as possible.
• Be careful when travel because bed bugs can move or spread from an infested area through your luggage and clothing. Inspect your hotel room, crack and crevices, mattress, and box spring when first checking in.
• If you buy pre-owned furniture or beds, check thoroughly for any sign of bed bugs infestation. A bloodstain on them may indicate the possibility of bed bugs infestation.
• Bed bugs can hide in many places. Reduce clutter in your home and vacuum their possible hiding places may reduce the chances of bed bugs infestation.
• Using of protective cover or mattress encasement may help prevent bed bugs infestation.

Control of Bed Bugs

• Control of bed bugs is very challenging, so always consult a professional if you notice any bed bugs infestation signs.
• Mechanical control - vacuuming, mattress and box spring encasement, and removing of infested items.
• Heat treatment and cold treatment - less hazardous and odorless.
• Insecticides comes in different formulations such as liquid, aerosols, and dust.
• Fumigation requires special equipment and trained professionals. Fumigants are able to penetrates all voids of homes, including deep behind walls and in bedding and upholstered furniture.

References

• Service, M. W. (1997). Medical Entomology for Students. Chapman & Hall. Pp. 267.