They are attracted to warm environments and infestations typically occur in or around sleeping areas.īed bugs do not travel on humans, but can travel in furniture (particularly upholstered furniture), luggage, and clothing. Infestations are on the rise in urban populations, which is thought to be secondary to a ban on many organophosphates insecticides (chemicals targeting crop-damaging insects and small animals). What causes bed bug infestation?īed bugs are found worldwide.
Reports of bed bug infestations appear to be increasing in homes, apartments, hotel rooms, hospitals, and hostels in developed countries with approximately 9% of apartments in large American cities having bed bugs in 2022. Those who travel frequently or sleep in places where there is a high turnover of people staying there (eg, dorm rooms, motels or hotels, or emergency accommodation) may be at higher risk. Click for images of bed bug infestation Who gets bed bugs?īed bugs feed on the blood of animals, particularly humans.
