Can Bed Bugs Hurt Humans?
Bedbugs are nocturnal insects that feed on the carbon dioxide released by humans and other warm-blooded animals. These insects bite people during the night and leave bite marks on exposed skin. Bedbug bites can look similar to fleas and mosquito bites and are often itchy and swollen. However, bedbugs do not transmit any diseases and the bites are not infectious.
If you are worried about bedbug bites, you can treat them yourself by washing the area with warm water and soap. You can also apply an anti-itch cream or cold compress to relieve itching. However, you may not want to apply topical steroids or antihistamines to young children. Using a bandage to cover the area is also a safe way to treat bedbug bites.
While bedbug bites usually do not cause major health risks, some people do experience allergic reactions. A severe reaction may require medical attention. Some strange cases have been reported in which bedbug infestations are related to asthma and anemia. In one study, a 60-year-old man with anemia developed asthma because of bedbug bites.
The best way to get rid of bedbugs is to clean and dry items thoroughly. If you can’t do this, you should consider using an effective pesticide. Using a nerve agent is very effective in killing bedbugs, but it is also harmful to humans. Cryonite is a chemical used to kill bedbugs on contact with a surface. Unlike other pesticides, Cryonite is safe for clothes, kids’ toys, and light sockets.