Bedbugs can cause people to lose sleep — and blood. Here’s what to do about them

Bedbugs, also known as the "vampires of the insect world," are small, reddish-brown bloodsuckers that hide during the day and come out at night to feed on human blood. Despite numerous generations of warnings to "sleep tight, don't let the bedbugs bite," infestations of these pests are on the rise. Now, some experts believe bedbugs may even be capable of spreading antibiotic-resistant infections like MRSA.

These pests have been a source of horror for centuries, causing panic in public spaces such as city buses and movie theaters. A recent example occurred in New York City in 2018 when at least six city buses were taken out of service due to reports of bedbugs on seats. Similarly, in Paris in 2023, bedbug sightings at a movie theater, on trains, and on buses heightened concerns before the 2024 Olympics.

Assistant Professor Christopher Hayes from North Carolina State University has experienced over 50 bedbug bites during his research and warns that unaware homeowners are particularly vulnerable to bringing these pests into their homes. Bedbugs are reddish-brown, about the size of an apple seed, and can be found in narrow crevices of furniture, clothes, linens, and mattresses. They are nearly impossible to see but can be detected through the dark excrement stains they leave behind.

Although bedbug bites are painless at the moment they occur, some people may develop itchy red welts a day or two later, while others may not react at all. This lack of immediate reaction is problematic, as people who are unaware they are being bitten repeatedly can quickly find themselves in the grip of an infestation.