Do Bed Bugs Carry Diseases in Broken Arrow, OK?

Can you get anything serious from a bed bug bite?

Are there physical/physiological effects if you are living with bed bugs?

According to scientists, naturally occurring infestations of common bed bugs have been documented to have at least 28 different kinds of human pathogens in their bodies. 

Very careful and detailed studies by both entomologists and medical doctors have never shown that those bed bugs could infect even one of those pathogens to humans or lab animals. They have not been shown to transmit any human disease known so far, however, just their bite alone is enough to warrant Pest Control.   

When a bed bug feeds, it injects saliva into its blood-meal host, you, your family, your guest, etc., their saliva contains several proteins that can routinely cause an allergic response from most hosts. The severity and timing of those reactions depend on the bitten person’s immune response to the salivary allergens and they can vary from one person to another.

Common reactions to bed bug bites usually include local reddening, minor swelling, inflammation and very intense itching at each bite site.  A person being repeatedly bitten by bed bugs will be very uncomfortable and will probably develop lots of reddish, itchy welts and often have difficulty sleeping. 

The more bugs present, the more bites they inflict and the worse the problems usually become. Also, some people can be significantly affected by the social stigma of having a bed bug infestation in their home.

The above information has been provided by and is owned by DATELINE

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get sick from a bed bug?

Bedbugs are not known to transmit diseases to people the way mosquitoes or ticks can. Their bites can cause itching, welts and sometimes allergic reactions, and scratching can lead to skin infections. Loss of sleep and stress are also common effects.

Is it safe to stay in a house with bed bugs?

Staying in a home with bedbugs is not considered a direct health emergency, but it is unpleasant and the problem tends to spread. Bites, poor sleep and anxiety are the main concerns. Arrange treatment promptly and avoid moving infested items between rooms.

What are the side effects of bed bugs on humans?

Typical effects are red, itchy bites, often in lines or clusters, along with sleep disruption and stress. Some people have stronger allergic reactions, and others show no reaction at all. Seek medical advice if bites become infected or you have a severe reaction.

Should I throw away a mattress with bed bugs?

You usually do not need to throw away a mattress, because a professional can treat it and a zippered bedbug encasement can trap remaining bugs. Hauling it out can spread bedbugs through the hallway and building. Replace it only if it is badly damaged or treatment is not practical.

What to do if you slept with bed bugs?

Wash and dry bedding on high heat, inspect the mattress seams and headboard, and avoid carrying linens through other rooms. Treat bites with a mild anti-itch product. Contact a pest professional to confirm and treat the infestation.

Contact Action Pest Management today for a free quote on pest control in Broken Arrow, OK.