Can Bed Bugs Transmit Diseases?

When considering bed bugs and disease, the prevalent medical position is they do carry disease organisms, but they are not known to transmit disease. While some sources claim that bed bugs are to blame for the spread of leprosy, Q-fever, oriental sores and brucellosis, these cases are poorly documented.

However, secondary infection may result if someone fails to keep the bites clean and disinfected, leading to swelling and bleeding of the bites. Infections are more likely to develop in children, those with suppressed immune systems and the elderly, especially those who are bedridden and unable to walk. Also, some people bitten by bed bugs have experienced allergic reactions that require medical attention, especially when exposed to numerous bites.

Bed Bug Infestation In Box Springs

Bed Bug Infestation In Box Springs

The greatest risk posed by bed bugs is the irritation of bites or the psychological concerns resulting in lack of sleep and stress. Bed bug bites do not typically become visible until a day or more after the insect's feeding, if at all, since some people never react to being bitten. In extreme reactions, large wheals can appear. These wheals gradually reduce in size, becoming small, red marks.

Bed bug bites can cause itching and may also result in swelling or blister-like skin inflammations. It is important to note that other non-bed-bug sources can result in skin irritations as well.

If you are experiencing bites or other skin reactions, contact a physician. If bed bugs are present in the home, a pest control professional should be contacted to eliminate them.

Bed Bug Control

How to identify Bed Bugs?

Learn what Bed Bugs look like, and how to detect if you have a Bed Bug Infestation.

How do you get Bed Bugs?

Find out how Bed Bugs infiltrate your home and where they are attracted to.

How serious are Bed Bugs?

Learn about Bed Bug bites. their feces and how they can impact your health.

What Orkin does

Learn how Orkin handles Bed Bugs, homeopathic cures and the cost of Bed Bug extermination services.

Resources

Protect Your Home from Bed Bugs

Causes of a bed bug infestation. Hotel? Used Furniture?

Do Bed Bugs Carry or Spread Diseases?

Bed bug chemicals: how safe and how often?

Are Bed Bugs Attracted to Certain Colors? | Bed Bug Facts

Can You Bring Bed Bugs Home from Office Building

How to Prevent Bed Bug Infestations | Bed Bug Facts

Are there over-the-counter treatments for bed bugs?

Do we have both fleas and bed bugs?

Bed Bug Exterminator - How To Identify & Get Rid Of Bed Bugs

Bed bug illustration

Can Bed Bugs Live on Clothes? | Bed Bug Eggs on Clothing

Get a quote today

Eliminate pests and prevent future problems.

We are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

877-819-5061

THE BEST IN PESTS.™

SERVICES

Pest ControlTermite ControlHome Services

PEST LIBRARY

Browse All Pests

CUSTOMER CARE

My AccountPay BillFind My BranchContact UsProduct Labels

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

© 2025 Orkin LLC

Terms of UsePrivacyAccessibility StatementSitemapCareers