Bed Bugs: What Are They And What Can They Do To Humans

Bed bugs are tiny parasitic insects that commonly dwell in human homes

. There are two kinds of bed bugs. The first is, the common bed bug or cimex lectularius, the bed bug specie that can easily adapt to human environment. The second is the tropical bed bug, which from the name itself, can be found in tropical regions.

A female bed bug lays five eggs a day and approximately 500 eggs in her entire lifespan. The eggs will hatch after one to two weeks. The hatched bed bug is only about 1.5mm and needs blood right after it molts for its growth. Bed bugs commonly undergo five stages of molting before it can become a mature adult. Each stage requires the bed bug to suck blood in order for it to pass and get to the next stage of its growth. A nymph can become a complete adult after five weeks, under a normal room temperature.

The body of an adult bed bug measures about 5.5mm, oval shaped and flat. Unlike any other bugs, bed bugs are wingless, nonetheless they are very fast runners. Generally, they are brown or rusty brown in color, but can turn reddish brown after sucking blood. The bed bugs are attracted to carbon dioxide and warmth emitted by the host. They pierce their host's skin using two tubes which are located in their mouths. The first tube is used to inject their saliva, which contains anticoagulants and anesthetics, while the second tube is used to suck blood from the host.

Bed bugs usually stay near their host, thus, they can be commonly seen in furniture, mattresses and couches. They are nocturnal insects and go searching for food during nighttime. In cold temperature, they can survive a year without feeding, while in temperature that suits activities and feeding, bed bugs can live up to five months.

Bed bugs can be traced by looking for bloodstains on sheets, furniture or clothes. Looking for bed bugs' abandoned skin and feces can also help in the detection of bed bugs.

Keeping rooms clean prevents bed bugs infestation. Washing the beddings and clothing with warm water and drying them in high temperature also prevent bed bugs.

Bed Bugs: What Are They And What Can They Do To Humans

By: Thomas Cowella

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