Do Bed Bugs Kill Humans?

While bed bugs do not typically transmit fatal diseases, bites from them can cause serious complications and even death. In one case, 96-year-old Mary Stoner, who lived in Hanover, Pennsylvania, died from bed bug bites. Her body was covered in a rash, and an autopsy revealed that she had contracted sepsis, a blood infection, which can cause a dramatic drop in blood pressure.

Bedbugs are small insects that live in the folds of a bed, mattress, box spring, or upholstery. They shed papery skins that look like little popcorn kernels. You can also recognize bedbugs by the dark spots left by their blood-filled droppings. Using a water-soaked towel, you can see if bedbugs are living in your mattress, box spring, or furniture.

Whether you are experiencing an outbreak of bedbugs or not, you must take special measures to detect them. Bedbugs can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. If you experience a severe allergic reaction, you should seek medical attention immediately. Although bedbug bites are typically painless, they can lead to a severe reaction if you scratch them.

While bed bugs rarely cause death, they do cause a high degree of emotional distress. The degree of physical discomfort is largely dependent on the severity of infestation and your skin sensitivity. If you discover a bedbug infestation, remember that it is unlikely to pose a serious health threat, but taking action quickly can help you avoid any further complications.