Bedbugs are reddish brown tiny and parasitic insects that are roughly the size of an apple seed. They infest homes, hotels and hospitals biting the external part of the human body and animals. Bites from them are often itchy, red and in a line.

There is no known disease that they transmit, however, they can cause itching, loss of sleep and some economic issues.

‘A few bedbugs in a home can quickly turn into an infestation as the female bedbug is known to lay 200 to 500 eggs during her lifetime’.

-Cleaveland clinic

CAUSES

Bedbug infestations have been linked to Increased international travel, Changes in pest control practices and Insecticide resistance. These bedbugs are usually found around or near where people sleep. They hide in the cracks and crevices of:

1. Mattresses
2. Box springs
3. Bed frame
4. wallpaper
5. Beneath carpets
6. Beneath switch plates

For persons who travel often, below are steps to spotting bedbugs in your hotel room;

1. Before you unpack, leave your suitcase in the bathroom.
2. Grab a torchlight and look for brown tick sized bugs and white “Dust” (eggs) on the mattress and sides of the bed and headboard.
3. Carefully look for dark specks (bug poop) or reddish stains (blood).
4. If you see signs of bedbug, let the hotel know and do not stay in the room.

Several persons have found it difficult to distinguish bites from bedbug and other insect bites or rashes, however, there are some unique features which include;

1. Reddish brown colouration often with a darker red spot in the middle
2. Itchy
3. Bites are arranged in a rough line or in a cluster
4. Bites location are on the face, neck, arms and hands

Also, a few persons have no reaction to bedbug bites, while others experience an allergic reaction that can include severe itching, blisters or hives. In cases as such, one is advised to see your doctor for professional treatment.

TREATMENT

Fortunately, bites from bedbug do not usually present a serious threat. To handle these bites, gently wash with soap and water, then apply an anti-itch cream or lotion to your skin as recommended by your doctor.

The itchy effect from bedbug bites can be severe but if possible, one is advised to avoid scratching. For serious reactions such as difficulty breathing, swollen tongue, blisters fever and extreme sick feeling please kindly adhere to your doctors instruction.

For most people, bedbug bites disappear within a few weeks.

Source: Mayoclinic, Wikipedia and Cleveland Clinic