Is Bed Bugs Bites Contagious?
WouterThe bite marks from bedbugs are very difficult to spot, especially because they often resemble those from mosquito bites or allergic hives. You may not know that you have a bedbug infestation until you see the bite marks, but you can always check for evidence by examining used items. For example, when you stay in a hotel, check the mattress seams and look for evidence of bedbug excrement. It is also a good idea to place your luggage on a dresser or table so that it doesn’t get soiled by bedbugs.
Once you’ve spotted a bedbug infestation, you need to keep an eye out for the signs of another infestation. Bedbugs produce chemicals that they use to communicate with each other. These chemicals can be contagious, so you must avoid contacting a person who may be infected. You can also avoid visiting the home of a person who has bedbugs.
If you’re worried about the risk of catching the disease, you should visit your doctor. He or she can recommend the appropriate treatment for you. Treatment will depend on the type of infection you have. If your infection is mild, you may not need any antibiotics. Instead, your doctor may recommend an antiseptic to prevent the skin infection from recurring. A doctor may also prescribe antihistamine pills or a topical antihistamine liquid to reduce itching.
A recent study by Harvard School of Public Health found that if bedbugs were present in a school building, they would be less contagious. However, an infestation of these bugs can persist for years, like a tuberculosis outbreak. Infected buildings and multi-unit housing complexes are also a breeding ground for these pests.
