Simona Principato & Zachary DeVries writes about possible health implications from bed bug infestations in Pest Control Technology. Published October 13, 2025
“… they also can lead to allergic reactions in humans. In fact, our reaction to these compounds is the main reason people develop red and swollen areas on their skin, like dermatitis. These bites are usually very itchy, although everyone reacts differently, and our individual reactions can change over time. In some individuals, the incessant need for scratching due to severe itchiness also could lead to secondary infections from open wounds.
Bed bug infestations sometimes are only realized when people complain about waking up with unknown bites. Reactions to bed bug bites typically appear on uncovered areas of the body like the legs, arms and neck — areas where bed bugs are traditionally known to probe. However, it should be noted that many blood-feeders like to feed on exposed areas of the skin, and bed bug bites are not limited to these areas. Thus, a bite mark alone is not necessarily indicative of a bed bug problem, and treating based on bites alone is not advised.
PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS. In addition to dermatitis and other skin issues, bed bugs also are associated with psychological distress. Many people develop symptoms of anxiety, stress, depression and obsessive thoughts when dealing with bed bugs. In fact, these symptoms can appear long after bed bugs have been eradicated from the home and sometimes even when bed bugs are not present”
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PCT
For more information on bed bugs see bedbug.info