Where Did Bed Bugs Start?
WouterBed bugs are ancient insects that have been with us since before the beginning of recorded history. They are believed to have first originated in caves in the Middle East, but they may have actually originated much earlier. The ancient Greeks were even aware of their existence and recorded their use. It is thought that bed bugs were used medicinally by the Greeks. They were even used to treat snakebites. Eventually, these insects moved onto humans.
Bedbugs spread from Asia and Africa to the Americas. The European settlers brought bed bugs to North America. Today, bedbugs can be found on every continent except Antarctica. In the United States, DDT was a popular pesticide for controlling bed bug populations. However, it was not always effective and was eventually banned. By the 1970s, the number of bed bug infestations in the U.S. was very low.
Bedbugs come into homes from used furniture, clothing, and luggage. In some cases, they may be brought into the home through daycares. When these bedbugs invade a new home, they may spread to other rooms. As a result, it is important to get rid of them as soon as possible.
Bedbugs can hide in the folds of the mattress and box springs. They have papery skins that shed blood-filled droppings. While these insects do not carry diseases, they can be uncomfortable and cause a red, itchy rash. Scientists have discovered bedbug fossils in ancient caves in the Middle East. Bedbugs have been around for a very long time, and they were often used by humans and bats for shelter. Ancient Egyptians even used the bedbug’s saliva to heal snake bites.
