Abstract
Bed Bugs: Clinical Relevance and Control Options Stephen L. Doggett a , Dominic E. Dwyer b , Pablo F. Peñas c and Richard C. Russell d a Department of Medical Entomology, ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia b Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, and Sydney Institute for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia c Department of Dermatology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia d Department of Medical Entomology, University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia SUMMARY Summary: Since the late 1990s, bed bugs of the species Cimex lectularius and Cimex hemipterus have undergone a worldwide resurgence. These bed bugs are blood-sucking insects that readily bite humans. Cutaneous reactions may occur and can start out as small macular lesions that can develop into distinctive wheals of around 5 cm in diameter, which are accompanied by intense itching. Occasionally, bullous eruptions may result. If bed bugs are numerous, the patient can present with widespread urticaria or eythematous rashes. Often, bites occur in lines along the limbs. Over 40 pathogens have been detected in bed bugs, but there is no definitive evidence that they transmit any disease-causing organisms to humans. Anemia may result when bed bugs are numerous, and their allergens can trigger asthmatic reactions. The misuse of chemicals and other technologies for controlling bed bugs has the potential to have a deleterious impact on human health, while the insect itself can be the cause of significant psychological trauma. The control of bed bugs is challenging and should encompass a multidisciplinary approach utilizing nonchemical means of control and the judicious use of insecticides. For accommodation providers, risk management procedures should be implemented to reduce the potential of bed bug infestations.Preview Only. This article cannot be rented because we do not currently have permission from the publisher.
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