Can Bed Bugs Give You a Disease?

There is a lot of misinformed information about so-called bed bug diseases. Although there are rumors of bed bugs causing these diseases, evidence has been poorly documented and thus not substantiated:

• Chagas disease
• Leprosy
• Q-fever
• Sores or brucellosis

Do Bed Bugs Carry Disease?

Research shows that bed bugs are associated with over 45 different microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, though there is no conclusive evidence that they actively transmit diseases to humans. A study published in the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene and reported in Science Daily examined bed bugs’ potential to carry Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite responsible for Chagas disease. While the bugs can harbor and potentially spread this parasite under experimental conditions, no widespread human transmission via bed bugs has been confirmed so far​.

Another notable finding relates to how bed bugs can alter the microbiome of their environment. Their presence in homes significantly influences microbial diversity, which could have implications for the health of the inhabitants. While these microbes do not directly indicate the bugs are vectors for diseases, it underscores their role in potentially affecting home hygiene​.

What Health Risks Do Bed Bugs Pose?

Although you don’t need to worry about getting any dangerous diseases from bed bugs, there are still a couple of risks associated with a bed bug problem. The most concerning thing about bed bugs is, of course, their bites.

While most people react normally to bed bug bites, some people can experience more serious symptoms. Especially if bites are irritated or scratched at, blister-like welts can form. This can lead to secondary skin infections. Some people have been known to form allergic reactions from bed bug problems. In any case, it’s important to seek medical attention from a professional if symptoms become serious.

Can Bed Bugs Hurt Me?

Bed bugs can cause homeowners a lot of distress. A bed bug infestation can disrupt your daily routine. Victims lose sleep, have to treat bites, front treatment costs, and worry about the possibility of being infested again. 

Physically speaking, most people do not have serious health issues when it comes to bed bug bites. For the most part, bed bug bites heal on their own in a week or two.  When bitten by a bed bug, you won’t feel it. Bed bugs inject an anesthetic and an anticoagulant that prevents you from realizing you are being bitten. Pain from a bite can start anywhere from a few hours to a few days after the bite. The most common symptom from bed bug bites is the itching, which can be painful. If bites are scratched, the bites can become worse and take longer to heal.

The Danger of Bed Bugs in Georgia

As mentioned previously, bed bugs thankfully do not transmit dangerous diseases. The main concern with an infestation is when their bites cause itching and loss of sleep. The stress of a bed bug infestation should not be taken lightly – it can have a significant impact on your well-being. In a full-blown infestation, it’s important to act quickly – contact us at Active Pest Control for rapid, professional bed bug extermination.

For more information about bed bug risks, read our article on who is at risk of bed bugs.

FAQs

Can you get sick from bed bugs?

While bed bugs do not directly transmit infectious diseases, their bites can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and secondary infections from excessive scratching. Their feces can also exacerbate allergic responses in sensitive individuals. Psychological stress and sleep disturbances are additional concerns when living in an infested environment.

What diseases are caused by bed bugs?

Bed bugs are not proven vectors for any diseases in humans. Although they harbor various microbes, they do not transmit these pathogens through their bites. However, research continues to examine their role in the spread of certain infectious agents under specific conditions.

Should I be worried about bed bugs?

Yes, bed bugs can cause significant discomfort and stress. Their bites may lead to itching, allergic reactions, and sleepless nights. Additionally, an infested home or business can require extensive treatment to eliminate the pests, impacting mental and physical well-being.

What harm do bed bugs cause to the body?

Bed bug bites often result in red, itchy welts due to their blood-feeding behavior. Repeated bites may provoke stronger allergic reactions in some individuals. Scratching bites increases the risk of skin infections.

What are the long-term effects of bed bug bites?

Most bed bug bites heal without lasting effects, but severe infestations can lead to chronic skin conditions or heightened allergic sensitivity over time. The psychological toll, including anxiety and insomnia, may persist if the infestation is not addressed promptly.