Bed Bugs and Disease
Although the bed bug has an irritating, itchy bite, it does not generally cause health concerns. Bed bugs can carry diseases, but these do not transmit to humans. While some sources claim that bed bugs are to blame for the spread of leprosy, Q-fever, oriental sores and brucellosis, these cases are rare and poorly documented.
Bed Bug Infestation on Box Spring
The greatest risk posed by bed bugs is the irritation of bites. Bed bug bites do not typically become visible until a day or more after the insect's feeding, at which point 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.
There may be health concerns about spotting on mattresses infested with bed bugs. If a bed bug infestation has been confirmed, these spots are often bed bug excrement. While it is difficult to directly link diseases to spotted mattresses, it is highly recommended that spotted mattresses be replaced, even after bed bugs have been eradicated.