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Background: The resurgence of two bed bug species, the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius Linnaeus, 1758) and tropical bed bug (Cimex hemipterus Fabricius, 1803), in the same geographical regions has been frequently reported recently. Consequently, the rapid identification of these species is crucial for implementing targeted capture traps and tailored pyrethroid resistance diagnosis, due to differences in genetic and physiological traits. Methods: To develop molecular diagnostic methods, distinct protocols were established for multiplex PCR and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) using species-specific primers based on species-specific segments of internal transcribed spacer 2 sequences. These methods were optimized for rapid and accurate identification of the two bed bug species. Results: Both multiplex PCR and LAMP protocols were effective in simultaneously identifying the two bed bug species, even when utilizing DNA released from dead specimens. Notably, the straightforward procedure and minimal time commitment of LAMP suggest its potential for rapid and accurate diagnosis of bed bugs in the field. The diagnostic accuracy of these methods was validated through a blind test. Conclusions: The multiplex PCR and LAMP protocols lay the foundation for rapid and accurate field identification of bed bug species, enabling the use of appropriate traps and the detection of species-specific pyrethroid resistance mutations. This approach ensures effective management tailored to the unique characteristics of each bed bug species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cryptic behavior that characterizes bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L.) makes them one of the most difficult indoor pests to control. Thus, the use of products with long residual efficacy is a key component of successful bed bug management. Aprehend is a biopesticide for bed bug control, whose active ingredient is the entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana. This product shows promise for extended bed bug control against pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs, causing mortality days after contact with the treated surface. However, it is unclear how surface type and distance traveled by bed bugs over a treated surface impact efficacy. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy of different Aprehend band widths applied to different substrates commonly encountered by bed bugs, looking specifically at average time to mortality and overall mortality. Our findings indicate that exposure to fresh applications of Aprehend resulted in high mortality when bed bugs traveled very short distances (1 cm) over some Aprehend-treated surfaces (vinyl tile and cotton jersey fabric), while exposure to other treated surfaces (unfinished pinewood and painted drywall) resulted in comparatively lower mortality even over longer distances (5 cm). Furthermore, we found that bed bugs crawling on cotton jersey fabric picked up a significantly higher number of spores compared to unfinished pinewood. These results indicate that applications of Aprehend as 5 cm (2 inches) bands according to label recommendations can be effective, although surface type is an important determinator of efficacy. This information will help guide pest management professionals in their use of B. bassiana for bed bug control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insecticide resistance is widespread in global bed bug populations. Both common bed bugs and tropical bed bugs are pyrethroid-resistant among most field populations. Plant-based products and nonconventional pesticides offer minimal-risk strategies for managing bed bug resistance, but this strategy has yet to be formally evaluated in Cimex hemipterus (F.) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae). Here, several commercial plant-based formulations (Cedarcide, EcoRaider (also known as EcoVenger), EcoSMART, and Bio-D), a novel product, Provecta, and a pyrethroid insecticide, Pesguard FG161 were tested against pyrethroid-susceptible and resistant strains of C. hemipterus using direct spray, residual exposure, and egg dipping assays. Direct spray treatments outperform residual applications against all tested bed bug strains. Cedarcide exhibits the highest consistency in eliminating bed bugs, followed by EcoRaider, EcoSMART, and Provecta that outperform Bio-D and Pesguard FG161. In comparison to Pesguard FG161, all plant-based insecticide products and Provecta showed higher efficacy against pyrethroid-resistant strains. Although effective, product efficacy varies in terms of speed. Cedarcide kills all bed bugs within 1 min after spraying; however, other products can take up to 9 days to achieve 100% mortality. The efficacy of all products was reduced when evaluated on fabric surface (42%–65% mortality). Cedarcide and EcoRaider reduced egg hatchability by 37%–73% and 47%–70%, respectively. This study suggests that certain plant-based insecticides and an unconventional insecticide can serve as alternative direct spray treatments for managing tropical bed bugs, though their residual effects are limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The resurgence of two bed bug species, the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius Linnaeus, 1758) and tropical bed bug (Cimex hemipterus Fabricius, 1803), in the same geographical regions has been frequently reported recently. Consequently, the rapid identification of these species is crucial for implementing targeted capture traps and tailored pyrethroid resistance diagnosis, due to differences in genetic and physiological traits. Methods To develop molecular diagnostic methods, distinct protocols were established for multiplex PCR and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) using species-specific primers based on species-specific segments of internal transcribed spacer 2 sequences. These methods were optimized for rapid and accurate identification of the two bed bug species. Results Both multiplex PCR and LAMP protocols were effective in simultaneously identifying the two bed bug species, even when utilizing DNA released from dead specimens. Notably, the straightforward procedure and minimal time commitment of LAMP suggest its potential for rapid and accurate diagnosis of bed bugs in the field. The diagnostic accuracy of these methods was validated through a blind test. Conclusions The multiplex PCR and LAMP protocols lay the foundation for rapid and accurate field identification of bed bug species, enabling the use of appropriate traps and the detection of species-specific pyrethroid resistance mutations. This approach ensures effective management tailored to the unique characteristics of each bed bug species. Graphical Abstract

Histamine is a biogenic amine that regulates multiple physiological functions in diverse organisms, specifically playing a central role in the mammalian immune response. The common bed bug, Cimex lectularius L. (Hemiptera: Cimicidae), excretes histamine in large amounts in its feces as a component of its aggregation pheromone, which contaminates homes. The potential health risks associated with the presence of indoor histamine are unclear, but to predict future exposure risks, it is critical that we understand if other arthropods excrete histamine in any discernible phylogenetic pattern. In the present study, we evaluated histamine excretion by various arthropods; specifically those commonly found in large numbers indoors, other hematophagous species, and other species in the order Hemiptera. To evaluate arthropods for histamine excretion, rearing containers for each arthropod were swabbed and/or the harborage substrates were collected. Samples were then analyzed for the presence of histamine using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. For those arthropods where histamine was present above the method detection limit, total histamine excretion was quantified over a period of 2 wk. Our results indicate that histamine excretion is limited to hematophagous hemipterans (bed bugs, bat bugs, tropical bed bugs, and kissing bugs), suggesting that indoor histamine contamination in the United States can be primarily linked to bed bugs.

Abstract Bed bugs are pervasive global pests that have reemerged in the last 20 years as a significant public health concern, especially in densely populated urban areas. Beyond financial losses, expenses, inconvenience, and psychological distress, bed bug infestations often necessitate chemical management, posing poisoning risks to those with an infestation. The French Poison Control Centers recorded 1056 cases of exposure to bed bug insecticide products between 1999 and 2021. This study followed cases over 2007–2021, with a notable surge in reports of adverse reactions from 2016 onwards. Data revealed an increased recurrent misuse of insecticides, including substances banned or not approved for this use. Our findings underscore the growing public reliance on chemical insecticides for home bed bug management. With this is the concern of increased poisoning risks, and potential long-term health consequences from non-professional efforts by the public to manage bed bugs in their homes. This escalating trend emphasizes the need for safer and more sustainable pest management strategies in urban environments.

Abstract Background Bed bugs, Cimex lectularius, form day-time aggregations from which they depart at night to feed on human blood. Obtaining an initial blood meal is a critical step in the development of first instars. Previous research had shown that first instars had greater success in obtaining this essential meal when in the presence of adults than when they were alone. Methods Feeding by bed bugs was tested in upright vertical cylindrical chambers fitted with a paper ramp to aid in climbing toward a blood feeder suspended across the upper end of the cylinder. Feeding success by the first instars was tested when they were alone in the chamber or when they were in the presence of adult females, males, or both together. Results The mean proportions of the first instars that fed were significantly higher when they were confined with adults of both sexes or adult females than when they were confined alone or with males. Feeding by adult males was also enhanced by confinement with females. When first instars and adult females were confined together, the mean duration before first instars began feeding was longer than for females. There was no difference in feeding success by first instars confined with their mothers or nonmothers. Conclusions Elevated feeding by first instars and adult males in the presence of females may be adaptive traits that enhance fitness. First instars must feed to avoid dehydration and starvation and to obtain resources needed for development. Adult males would benefit not only by increased feeding success but also by greater likelihood of finding a recently engorged female with which to mate. The lack of any difference in feeding success of first instars in the presence of their mothers or nonmothers argues against parental care in this species. Graphical Abstract

Cimex species (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) are of public health importance as ectoparasites of mammals and birds; however, only a few species are the putative ectoparasites of humans. Bed bugs are wingless bloodsucking hemipterous insects (Cimex spp.), sometimes infest household furniture, especially beds, and feed on human blood. Correct species identification is critical to designing targeted strategies for the surveillance and controlling of bed bugs in a given area. Adult bed bugs were collected from houses located in the southwest of Iran. They were morphologically identified to the species level and then confirmed using molecular methods. The mtDNA 16 S rRNA sequences obtained from the samples, and phylogenetic tree, showed that all the sequences belong to Cimex hemipterus (Fabricius). The Disparity Index among results showed that all the specimens were of a heterogeneous population. The leg structure of this species has not previously been documented, and this report showed an open-closed rack system. Previous studies claimed that C. lectularius is an abundant species of Cimicids in Iran. Our results showed the existence of C. hemipterus in the southwest of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bed bugs are pervasive global pests that have reemerged in the last 20 years as a significant public health concern, especially in densely populated urban areas. Beyond financial losses, expenses, inconvenience, and psychological distress, bed bug infestations often necessitate chemical management, posing poisoning risks to those with an infestation. The French Poison Control Centers recorded 1056 cases of exposure to bed bug insecticide products between 1999 and 2021. This study followed cases over 2007–2021, with a notable surge in reports of adverse reactions from 2016 onwards. Data revealed an increased recurrent misuse of insecticides, including substances banned or not approved for this use. Our findings underscore the growing public reliance on chemical insecticides for home bed bug management. With this is the concern of increased poisoning risks, and potential long-term health consequences from non-professional efforts by the public to manage bed bugs in their homes. This escalating trend emphasizes the need for safer and more sustainable pest management strategies in urban environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bed bugs, Cimex lectularius, form day-time aggregations from which they depart at night to feed on human blood. Obtaining an initial blood meal is a critical step in the development of first instars. Previous research had shown that first instars had greater success in obtaining this essential meal when in the presence of adults than when they were alone. Methods: Feeding by bed bugs was tested in upright vertical cylindrical chambers fitted with a paper ramp to aid in climbing toward a blood feeder suspended across the upper end of the cylinder. Feeding success by the first instars was tested when they were alone in the chamber or when they were in the presence of adult females, males, or both together. Results: The mean proportions of the first instars that fed were significantly higher when they were confined with adults of both sexes or adult females than when they were confined alone or with males. Feeding by adult males was also enhanced by confinement with females. When first instars and adult females were confined together, the mean duration before first instars began feeding was longer than for females. There was no difference in feeding success by first instars confined with their mothers or nonmothers. Conclusions: Elevated feeding by first instars and adult males in the presence of females may be adaptive traits that enhance fitness. First instars must feed to avoid dehydration and starvation and to obtain resources needed for development. Adult males would benefit not only by increased feeding success but also by greater likelihood of finding a recently engorged female with which to mate. The lack of any difference in feeding success of first instars in the presence of their mothers or nonmothers argues against parental care in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The draft genome data for Cimex hemipterus obtained through Illumina HiSeq sequencing were presented. The raw genomic data was deposited in GenBank under BioProject (PRJNA722579) with the BioSample accession number SAMN18780126. Software, including FLASH, SPADES, and QUAST, were used to merge, assemble, and qualify the raw dataset. The assembled genome was available in the Figshare repository. The assembled genomic data was compared to C. hemipterus data obtained using 454 Roche shotgun sequencing (BioProject, PRJNA308532), downloaded from NCBI. The draft genome data from this work demonstrated larger data volumes and an updated assembly of the C. hemipterus genome with better scaffolding compared to genome data obtained from 454 Roche shotgun sequencing.

The global resurgence of bed bug infestations, exacerbated by increasing international travel, trade, and insecticide resistance, has significantly impacted Korea. This study identified the bed bug species and performed pyrethroid resistance genotyping of recently resurgent bed bugs in Korea. Thirty-one regional bed bug samples were collected from 5 administrative regions: Gyeonggi-do (n=14), Seoul (n=13), Busan (n=2), Jeonllanam-do (n=1), and Chungcheongbuk-do (n=1). The samples underwent morphological and molecular identification. Twenty-four regional samples (77.4%) were identified as the tropical bed bug, Cimex hemipterus, and the remaining 7 regional samples (22.6%) were identified as the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius. The C. hemipterus regional samples carried at least three mutations associated with knockdown resistance (kdr), including 2 super-kdr mutations. The 7 C. lectularius regional samples possessed at least one of the 3 kdr-related mutations associated with pyrethroid resistance. This study confirms that the prevalent bed bug species recently in Korea is C. hemipterus, replacing the previously endemic C. lectularius. Additionally, the rise in bed bug populations with pyrethroid resistance underscores the necessity of introducing alternative insecticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we fed bed bugs through a membrane contaminated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) at a concentration naturally present on human skin. We then determined the amount of viable MRSA present on their surface and internally over a period of 7 days. We also determined whether bed bugs that fed through the contaminated membrane could transmit MRSA to an uncontaminated membrane when taking a second blood meal 7 days later. Bed bugs acquired MRSA both externally on the cuticle surface as well as internally when feeding. MRSA was found to persist for 7 days both externally and internally in some bed bugs. Furthermore, MRSA replicated internally but not externally. Most importantly, bed bugs were able to transmit MRSA to an uncontaminated membrane feeder in 2 of 3 trials. These findings provide the first experimental support for the hypothesis that bed bugs may contribute to the transmission of MRSA in some settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cimex lectularius, known as the common bed bug, is a widespread hematophagous human ectoparasite and urban pest that is not known to be a vector of any human infectious disease agents. However, few studies in the era of molecular biology have profiled the microorganisms harbored by field populations of bed bugs. The objective of this study was to examine the viruses present in a large sampling of common bed bugs and related bat bugs (Cimex pipistrelle). RNA sequencing was undertaken on an international sampling of > 500 field-collected bugs, and multiple workflows were used to assemble contigs and query these against reference nucleotide databases to identify viral genomes. Shuangao bed bug virus 2, an uncharacterized rhabdovirus previously discovered in Cimex hemipterus from China, was found in several bed bug pools from the USA and Europe, as well as in C. pipistrelle, suggesting that this virus is common among bed bug populations. In addition, Shuangao bed bug virus 1 was detected in a bed bug pool from China, and sequences matching Enterobacteria phage P7 were found in all bed bug pools, indicating the ubiquitous presence of phage-derived elements in the genome of the bed bug or its enterobacterial symbiont. However, viral diversity was low in bed bugs in our study, as no other viral genomes were detected with significant coverage. These results provide evidence against frequent virus infection in bed bugs. Nonetheless, our investigation had several important limitations, and additional studies should be conducted to better understand the prevalence and composition of viruses in bed bugs. Most notably, our study largely focused on insects from urban areas in industrialized nations, thus likely missing infrequent virus infections and those that could occur in rural or tropical environments or developing nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bed bugs are blood-feeding insects and are an important urban pest. Bed bugs are nocturnal insects and hide in cracks in walls and beds during the day. The study aims to: (1) determine the bed bugs species that infest Iraq, their infestation source, and their distribution; (2) determine the level of awareness and concern regarding bed bugs among the Iraqi community. Methods: Between 2020 and 2021, a survey of bed bug infestation dynamics was conducted in 18 infested sites located in major cities across eight governorates. The 23-item online survey was distributed over social media to Iraqi citizens between June and July 2022 to survey on their familiarity with bed bug habitat, medical significance, transmission, pre­vention, control measures, and concerns. Results: There were a total of 1104 bed bugs collected. Based on the morphological characteristics, bed bugs collected from eight Iraqi governorates are identified as Cimex hemipterus. Besides, a high rate of bed bug infestation was ob­served in workers' dormitories. The online questionnaire was answered by 1843 respondents and based on the feedback, most respondents (55.3%) have no awareness of bed bug infestations, while around 43.8% are somewhat concerned about bed bug infestations in Iraq. Conclusion: Only tropical bed bugs, C. hemipterus were found in all sampled sites. Bed bug infestations are mainly caused by migrant workers and the reuse of second-hand furniture and clothing. The results suggest that the Iraqi gov­ernment should organize more proper demonstrations on bed bug awareness for the public.

Background: Cimex lectularius L. (bed bug) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) is a serious indoor pest worldwide, and this nuisance needs to be controlled using different methods in integrated pest management (IPM). Beauveria bassiana (Bals.‐Criv.) Vuill. (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) kills bed bugs, and insect pathogenic fungi may be utilized to control bed bugs in IPM. To increase knowledge of this methodology, forced exposure experiments were conducted with different formulations, doses, and substrates, using bed bugs in variable physiological states. Results: Both oil‐ and water‐formulated fungal products showed significant improvement when conidial concentrations were raised in five steps from 0.02 to 2.0%. At low concentrations (0.02% in water) effects from substrate and application strategy were observed. Application on soft substrates (cotton and polyester) yielded significantly higher bed bug mortality rates than on harder substrates (paper, wood, and linoleum) with a final mortality of 35–63% against 8–10%. Multiple applications over time also improved B. bassiana's ability to kill bed bugs, and at low concentrations only a triple application on cotton showed 100% final mortality. Bed bug age and reproductive status significantly affected survival. Older and reproducing individuals showed higher mortality compared to newly emerged adults. Differences in feeding status also yielded differences in mortality timing, but only minor differences in final mortality rates. Egg production and hatching success were significantly reduced by some treatments. Conclusion: B. bassiana appears to be an asset in the fight against bed bugs. Substrate, dosage, application strategy, and bed bug physiology are important factors to consider for optimal efficacy and safe indoor control with insect pathogenic fungi. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Over the past 20 years, there has been a worldwide resurgence in the nuisance biting insects known as bed bugs. The resurgence is due to the development of insecticide resistance, such that modern bed bugs are very hard to kill. This also means that control is expensive, and not everyone has the financial resources to pay for eradication. In an effort to develop cheaper control solutions, we investigated the use of "lethal harborages". Here, pieces of cardboard were treated with different insecticides, two strains of bed bugs (one that is easy to kill and one that is resistant) were allowed to enter the treated cardboards, and mortality was recorded. The cardboard treated with silica dioxide were the most effective, causing 100% of the bugs to die within 14 to 17 days when using the highest dose. This silica dioxide dust was also tested in an artificial environment. By day 21, all the bugs in the treated settings were eliminated. These "lethal harborages" were highly effective in the laboratory and are a potential low-cost solution as part of an overall bed bug control plan. Over the past two decades, there has been a worldwide resurgence in the bed bugs Cimex lectularius L. and Cimex hemipterus (F.). This is primarily due to insecticide resistance, making bed bug management and eradication challenging and expensive. To address the need for more affordable control solutions, "lethal harborages" were explored. Cardboard squares were treated using insecticidal dusts at different dosage levels, including silica dioxide, diatomaceous earth, deltamethrin, permethrin, and fipronil. Two strains of C. lectularius, one susceptible and one resistant, were allowed to enter the treated harborages, and mortality rates were recorded daily. The silica dioxide products proved to be the most efficacious, consistently achieving 100% mortality between 14–17 d at the highest dose. An artificial environment trial using the "new ChinChex®" formulation of silica dioxide resulted in the complete elimination of bed bugs in the treated harborages within 21 d. These findings suggest that lethal harborages, especially those impregnated with silica dioxide, offer a cost-effective solution that could be incorporated into broader integrated bed bug management strategies. This approach may help alleviate the burden of bed bug infestations in economically disadvantaged communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In the last few years, the bed bug Cimex lectularius has been an increasing problem worldwide, mainly due to the development of insecticide resistance to pyrethroids. The characterization of resistance alleles is a prerequisite to improve surveillance and resistance management. To identify genomic variants associated with pyrethroid resistance in Cimex lectularius, we compared the genetic composition of two recent and resistant populations with that of two ancient‐susceptible strains using a genome‐wide pool‐seq design. We identified a large 6 Mb “superlocus” showing particularly high genetic differentiation and association with the resistance phenotype. This superlocus contained several clustered resistance genes and was also characterized by a high density of structural variants (inversions, duplications). The possibility that this superlocus constitutes a resistance “supergene” that evolved after the clustering of alleles adapted to insecticide and after reduction in recombination is discussed.

As one of the most abundant insect orders on earth, most Hemipteran insects are phytophagous, with the few hematophagous exceptions falling into two families: Cimicidae, such as bed bugs, and Reduviidae, such as kissing bugs. Many of these blood-feeding hemipteran insects are known to be realistic or potential disease vectors, presenting both physical and psychological risks for public health. Considerable researches into the interactions between hemipteran insects such as kissing bugs and bed bugs and their human hosts have revealed important information that deepens our understanding of their chemical ecology and olfactory physiology. Sensory mechanisms in the peripheral olfactory system of both insects have now been characterized, with a particular emphasis on their olfactory sensory neurons and odorant receptors. This review summarizes the findings of recent studies of both kissing bugs (including Rhodnius prolixus and Triatoma infestans) and bed bugs (Cimex lectularius), focusing on their chemical ecology and peripheral olfactory systems. Potential chemosensation-based applications for the management of these Hemipteran insect vectors are also discussed.

Background: Bed bugs are blood-feeding insects and are an important urban pest. Bed bugs are nocturnal insects and hide in cracks in walls and beds during the day. The study aims to: (1) determine the bed bugs species that infest Iraq, their infestation source, and their distribution; (2) determine the level of awareness and concern regarding bed bugs among the Iraqi community. Methods: Between 2020 and 2021, a survey of bed bug infestation dynamics was conducted in 18 infested sites located in major cities across eight governorates. The 23-item online survey was distributed over social media to Iraqi citizens between June and July 2022 to survey on their familiarity with bed bug habitat, medical significance, transmission, prevention, control measures, and concerns. Results: There were a total of 1104 bed bugs collected. Based on the morphological characteristics, bed bugs collected from eight Iraqi governorates are identified as Cimex hemipterus. Besides, a high rate of bed bug infestation was observed in workers' dormitories. The online questionnaire was answered by 1843 respondents and based on the feedback, most respondents (55.3%) have no awareness of bed bug infestations, while around 43.8% are somewhat concerned about bed bug infestations in Iraq. Conclusion: Only tropical bed bugs, C. hemipterus were found in all sampled sites. Bed bug infestations are mainly caused by migrant workers and the reuse of second-hand furniture and clothing. The results suggest that the Iraqi government should organize more proper demonstrations on bed bug awareness for the public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bed bugs produce volatile aldehydes that have alarm and aggregation functions. Using two synanthropic bed bug species, Cimex lectularius L. and C. hemipterus (Fabricius), developmental changes were examined for (E)-2-hexenal, 4-oxo-(E)-2-hexenal, (E)-2-octenal, and 4-oxo-(E)-2-octenal, the four most abundant aldehydes shared between the two species. Quantitative analyses of the aldehydes in the nymphal exuviae indicated that the aldehydes' ratio remained similar throughout nymphal development. In general, (E)-2-octenal was most abundant, and (E)-2-hexenal and 4-oxo-(E)-2-octenal were least abundant. The fourth aldehyde, 4-oxo-(E)-2-hexenal, was present in intermediate quantities. The quantities and percent abundances of the aldehydes in nymphal exuviae and the adults were significantly different between C. lectularius and C. hemipterus. The ratio between (E)-2-hexenal and (E)-2-octenal was determined in adult male and female bed bugs of each species. Adult C. hemipterus had a higher proportion of (E)-2-hexenal than C. lectularius, while no sex differences were found. This work provides the first systematic quantification of four aldehydes [(E)-2-hexenal, 4-oxo-(E)-2-hexenal, (E)-2-octenal and 4-oxo-(E)-2-octenal] for all five of the nymphal stages for both C. lectularius and C. hemipterus.

Female bed bugs, Cimex lectularius, in strains from three widely separated geographic regions were evaluated for diel and daily periodicity in oviposition, as well as for the duration of oviposition per se and apparent egg marking behavior. Females that were mated and fed for the first time and laying their first clutch of eggs and females fed a second time before laying their second clutch of eggs both oviposited preferentially in the scotophase of a 14:10 L:D cycle. Oviposition began before the photophase ended, indicating it was not induced by the onset of darkness and suggesting that oviposition may be governed by a circadian rhythm. First-clutch females began to oviposit closer to the onset of darkness and 1–2 days later than second-clutch females, respectively, suggesting that first-clutch females were more strictly entrained to the L:D cycle and were still undergoing reproductive maturation. In all cases, oviposition of one clutch was finished by day 10, but the frequency distributions of eggs laid daily by first-clutch and second-clutch females, as well as those of females from the three different strains, were all significantly different. The acts of oviposition and subsequent apparent egg marking behavior (a novel observation) lasted mean durations of 4.7 s and 24.1 s, respectively. During apparent egg marking, a female would repeatedly touch the abdominal cuticle in the region of the scent glands with her metathoracic tarsi and then touch the newly laid egg while concurrently waving the tip of her abdomen back and forth across the surface of the egg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to review the studies used plants and plant components against Cimex lectularius. Standard procedure for systematic reviews was followed. Various electronic databases were investigated for choosing reliable researches from 1990 to 2021. In total, 18 papers were selected among the 300 papers. Totally, 26 plants were evaluated in the published studies. Plants included Thymus vulgaris, Origanum vulgare, Mentha piperita, Syzygium aromaticum, and plant components of Thymol, Carvacrol and Linalool have the highest frequency in the papers studied. Maximum mortality and repellency of up to 100% were reported for the essential oils of Tagetes patula, Schinus molle, and plants of Cinnamomum sp. Cymbopogon martinii, Mentha piperita, Salvia rosmarinus, Thymus vulgaris, Origanum vulgare, Nepeta cataria. The results of this review can provide a better understanding of the potential of extracts and essential oils made from these plants and plant components for researchers to control bed bugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are blood-sucking insects that bite humans usually at night and cause nuisance, psychological and social problems. These insects are considered a health hazard in densely populated places such as prisons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice of inmates, soldiers, and prison staff regarding bed bugs in Mazandaran prisons. Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical study in which 450 inmates and 210 staff (105 personnel and 105 soldiers) from prisons of Mazandaran Province were included in the study. Data on knowledge, attitude, and practice of the participants regarding bed bugs were collected using a structured questionnaire. To determine the relative content validity coefficient, the questionnaire was assessed by 10 specialists in terms of difficulty, inappropriateness, and ambiguity of the phrases. The reliability of the questionnaire was measured using Cronbach's Alpha and then the data were analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Results: The maximum mean scores of knowledges, attitude, and practice between the three target groups were 16.42%, 44.07% and 71.21% respectively. Prison staff had the highest knowledge and practice, and inmates showed the highest attitude regarding bed bugs. There was no significant difference between the knowledge and attitude of inmates, prison staff and soldiers (P> 0.05) but there was a significant difference in their practice (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Results of this study confirmed that all three groups of people in the prisons need appropriate education regarding all aspects of bed bug including its control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last few years, the bed bug Cimex lectularius has been an increasing problem worldwide, mainly due to the development of insecticide resistance to pyrethroids. The characterization of resistance alleles is a prerequisite to improve surveillance and resistance management. To identify genomic variants associated with pyrethroid resistance in Cimex lectularius, we compared the genetic composition of two recent and resistant populations with that of two ancient‐susceptible strains using a genome‐wide pool‐seq design. We identified a large 6 Mb "superlocus" showing particularly high genetic differentiation and association with the resistance phenotype. This superlocus contained several clustered resistance genes and was also characterized by a high density of structural variants (inversions, duplications). The possibility that this superlocus constitutes a resistance "supergene" that evolved after the clustering of alleles adapted to insecticide and after reduction in recombination is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are blood-sucking insects that bite humans usually at night and cause nui­sance, psychological and social problems. These insects are considered a health hazard in densely populated places such as prisons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice of inmates, soldiers, and prison staff regarding bed bugs in Mazandaran prisons. Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical study in which 450 inmates and 210 staff (105 personnel and 105 soldiers) from prisons of Mazandaran Province were included in the study. Data on knowledge, attitude, and practice of the par­ticipants regarding bed bugs were collected using a structured questionnaire. To determine the relative content validity coefficient, the questionnaire was assessed by 10 specialists in terms of difficulty, inappropriateness, and ambiguity of the phrases. The reliability of the questionnaire was measured using Cronbach's Alpha and then the data were analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Results: The maximum mean scores of knowledges, attitude, and practice between the three target groups were 16.42%, 44.07% and 71.21% respectively. Prison staff had the highest knowledge and practice, and inmates showed the highest attitude regarding bed bugs. There was no significant difference between the knowledge and attitude of inmates, prison staff and soldiers (P> 0.05) but there was a significant difference in their practice (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Results of this study confirmed that all three groups of people in the prisons need appropriate education regarding all aspects of bed bug including its control.

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The use of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Bals. – Criv.) Vuill. (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) has been recently incorporated in the management of bed bugs, Cimex lectularius L. (Hemiptera: Cimicidae). Bed bugs produce a set of aldehydes that are known to affect the growth of some fungi. Considering that bed bugs or their exuviae release these aldehydes, it was suspected that the bed bugs' aggregation sites would contain an increased level of the bed bug aldehydes. The current study examined if elevated levels of the bed bug aldehydes in the microhabitats would impact the efficacy of B. bassiana. Following a brief exposure to the residues of commercial products containing B. bassiana, the treated bed bugs were kept in a vial with or without a natural or artificial blend of bed bug aldehydes (i.e. exuviae or synthetic compounds). For a B. bassiana product that is not currently registered for bed bugs control, the presence of aldehydes significantly reduced 15-d mortality (61–62%) compared to the no aldehydes control (97.7%). However, when tested with a B. bassiana formulation designed for bed bug control, the aldehydes only caused delayed mortality for the treated bed bugs. When tested in culture, the growth rate of B. bassiana on a medium was significantly reduced when the bed bug aldehydes were provided in the headspace. Implications on practical bed bug management using fungal biopesticides are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The common bed bug, Cimex lectularius L. is a difficult urban pest to control. A simulated field study was conducted to compare the efficacy of steam application and an insecticide mixture spray (0.05% acetamiprid and 0.06% bifenthrin mixture) against C. lectularius. Three types of furniture (desk chair, upholstered armchair, and wooden table) were treated in the laboratory. The efficacy of the treatments was evaluated by visual inspection and placement of interceptor traps under the legs of the furniture. One hundred mixed stages of an insecticide-resistant population of C. lectularius were released onto each furniture item. After a 10-day acclimation period, each furniture item received steam treatment, insecticide spray, or no treatment. The second application of treatment was conducted 14 d later. Bed bug counts from interceptors and visual inspections were recorded at 13 d and 28 d after the initial treatment. At 28 d, the mean (± SE) live bed bug count in the steam, spray, and control group was 1 ± 0, 2 ± 1, and 83 ± 10, respectively. Both treatment methods were highly effective in controlling bed bugs on furniture. The mean bed bug count from interceptors in the steam, spray, and control groups were 0.3 ± 0.2, 11 ± 7, and 47 ± 9, respectively. There was no significant difference in the efficacy between steam and spray treatments based on either visual inspection or bed bug counts from interceptors. However, based on interceptor counts, the steam treatment caused faster bed bug population reduction than insecticide sprays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Besides humans, the common bed bug Cimex lectularius uses bats as hosts, but no such records were available from the Southern Caucasus. Here, we record the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) and the lesser mouse-eared bat (Myotis blythii) as hosts of C. lectularius from two Georgian and one Armenian sites. A summary of all known published records of bat-associated populations of C. lectularius shows they are both scattered and restricted to the Palearctic only. Observations of C. lectularius from bat colonies in Georgia and Armenia were made in old buildings or ruins, like churches or monasteries, but not in caves, despite a specific search. This supports previous studies suggesting that 1) bat-associations of common bed bugs are very rare outside Central Europe and 2) almost never occur in caves. We discuss climatic conditions and host preferences as possible factors for these findings and the implications for the origin of the human bed bug interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past two decades, there has been a worldwide resurgence in the bed bugs Cimex lectularius L. and Cimex hemipterus (F.). This is primarily due to insecticide resistance, making bed bug management and eradication challenging and expensive. To address the need for more affordable control solutions, “lethal harborages” were explored. Cardboard squares were treated using insecticidal dusts at different dosage levels, including silica dioxide, diatomaceous earth, deltamethrin, permethrin, and fipronil. Two strains of C. lectularius, one susceptible and one resistant, were allowed to enter the treated harborages, and mortality rates were recorded daily. The silica dioxide products proved to be the most efficacious, consistently achieving 100% mortality between 14–17 d at the highest dose. An artificial environment trial using the “new ChinChex®” formulation of silica dioxide resulted in the complete elimination of bed bugs in the treated harborages within 21 d. These findings suggest that lethal harborages, especially those impregnated with silica dioxide, offer a cost-effective solution that could be incorporated into broader integrated bed bug management strategies. This approach may help alleviate the burden of bed bug infestations in economically disadvantaged communities.

Sexual conflict is ubiquitous across the animal kingdom and often involves costly sexual harassment of females by males. An overlooked outcome of sexual conflict is its potential impact on social behaviour. Due to their seemingly harmful mode of copulation (traumatic insemination) and tendency to form aggregations, bed bugs are an ideal model for studying the social implications of sexual conflict. Repeated traumatic inseminations are known to reduce some aspects of female fitness, so we expected the benefits to males and the high costs for females of frequent mating to result in divergent social preferences between the sexes. To examine the impact of sexual harassment on social structure, we devised a novel experimental arena with either two shelters or 12 shelters and continuously tracked sexual and social interactions between individually marked bed bugs over 6 days. By constructing aggregation networks, we examined whether female bed bugs occupied more peripheral network positions compared to males as well as whether females preferentially associated with other females as a strategy to reap the benefits of group living while mitigating the costs of unsolicited sexual attention. We found no evidence that females shape their social environment to evade associating with males. However, when tested individually in a follow-up experiment, mated females showed a strong preference for social cues from females over social cues from males. Our results therefore suggest that males and females may be in conflict over the composition of social associations and highlight the importance of both examining behaviour at the individual level and tracking larger groups of freely interacting populations in more complex environments. • Sexual conflict may differentially influence social behaviour of females and males. • We constructed bed bug social networks to see whether females socially evade males. • Aggregation networks did not show female avoidance through decreased sociality. • Social networks were also not assorted by sex. • However, females preferred social cues associated with other females over males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The allures of city life have culminated in the rise of urban populations resulting in conditions that promote the establishment of certain insect pests. Globally, the public health significance of these urban insect pests is enormous, ranging from billions of dollars to loss of lives. Most chemical insecticides no longer provide the anticipated level of control, and significant insecticide resistance has been reported. Therefore, there has been a spike in interest for alternatives to conventional insecticides. Among them, natural products from plants such as essential oils (EOs) and essential oil components (EOCs) have enjoyed the most attention owing to widespread reports of efficacy and toxicity even against insecticide-resistant urban insects. Yet, there is no comprehensive synthesis on the extent and impact of the management of urban insects using EOs or EOCs. Such a review is highly relevant since it provides a means to assess the extent of progress made, shortfalls, limitations, and prospects. More so, we hope it can be used to make informed decisions and develop relevant policies reliably. We present the ranges of insecticidal effects of EOs, EOCs, and commercially available EO-based products from laboratory and field studies. Finally, we discuss the gaps in our knowledge and prospects for the sustainable use of EOs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the increase in international travel and development of insecticide resistance, a re-emergence of the bed bug has been observed since the 2000s and it is becoming a worldwide public health problem. Hospitals and other medical settings have not been spared, while the cases reported remain limited. However, there are no specific recommendations for the healthcare settings in the literature.Aim: To report our experience of a bed bug infestation in a medical unit, in the French University Hospital Centre of Brest, caused by the admission of a patient carrier in October 2020. We described the practical methods used to control bed bugs infestation, evaluated the cost of this episode and created a specific procedure to take care of at-risk patients or known carriers of bed bugs.Findings: The decision to close the unit for global treatment was taken after the investigations using a sniffer dog revealed that four rooms were infested. The closure lasted 24 days. We estimated the total cost of the infestation to be approximately US$400,000. No other wave of infestation occurred. We created a specific protocol of care for patients who were known carriers or at risk of carriage of bed bugs to graduate a strategy of control.Conclusion: Bed bug infestations in health facilities have a major impact on the care of patients and relevant economic consequences. Prevention and education policies are an essential starting point to respond to the scale of the phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The worldwide resurgence of bed bugs [both Cimex lectularius L. and Cimex hemipterus (F.)] over the past two decades is believed in large part to be due to the development of insecticide resistance. The transcriptomic and genomic studies since 2010, as well as morphological, biochemical and behavioral studies, have helped insecticide resistance research on bed bugs. Multiple resistance mechanisms, including penetration resistance through thickening or remodelling of the cuticle, metabolic resistance by increased activities of detoxification enzymes (e.g. cytochrome P450 monooxygenases and esterases), and knockdown resistance by kdr mutations, have been experimentally identified as conferring insecticide resistance in bed bugs. Other candidate resistance mechanisms, including behavioral resistance, some types of physiological resistance (e.g. increasing activities of esterases by point mutations, glutathione S-transferase, target site insensitivity including altered AChEs, GABA receptor insensitivity and altered nAChRs), symbiont-mediated resistance and other potential, yet undiscovered mechanisms may exist. This article reviews recent studies of resistance mechanisms and the genes governing insecticide resistance, potential candidate resistance mechanisms, and methods of monitoring insecticide resistance in bed bugs. This article provides an insight into the knowledge essential for the development of both insecticide resistance management (IRM) and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for successful bed bug management.

BackgroundThe resistance of bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L.) to chemical insecticides has motivated the development of non-chemical control methods such as heat treatment. However, because bed bugs tend to hide in cracks or crevices, their behavior incidentally generates a thermally insulated microenvironment for themselves. Bed bugs located on the outer surface of luggage are less insulated and potentially more vulnerable to brief heat treatment.ResultsSoft-sided suitcases with adult male bed bugs on the outside were exposed to an air temperature of 70-75 °C. It took 6 min to kill all of the bed bugs, even those that had concealed themselves under zipper flaps or decorative piping. During heating, only one bed bug (out of 250 in total) moved into the luggage (through a closed zipper). Over long periods of time (24 h) at room temperature, adult male bed bugs on the exterior of luggage only infrequently moved inside; only 3% (5/170) had moved inside during 24 h.ConclusionsBrief exterior heat treatment of luggage is a promising way to reduce the spread of bed bugs being transported on the outer surface of luggage. This treatment will not kill bed bugs inside the luggage, but could be a component of integrated management for this pest. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

The genus Francisella includes several highly virulent human pathogens and some tick endosymbionts. Francisella infections are acquired by humans through contact with vertebrate animal reservoirs or contaminated water or dust. The species Francisella tularensis can also be transmitted by arthropods including ticks, mosquitoes, and flies. For the first time, we describe the molecular detection of an F. tularensis-like bacterium in bed bugs from samples collected in rural Madagascar. This finding suggests a potential involvement of bed bugs in the ecology of Francisella. The role of bed bugs as possible hosts, reservoirs, or vectors of Francisella spp. should be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The draft genome data for Cimex hemipterus obtained through Illumina HiSeq sequencing were presented. The raw genomic data was deposited in GenBank under BioProject (PRJNA722579) with the BioSample accession number SAMN18780126. Software, including FLASH, SPADES, and QUAST, were used to merge, assemble, and qualify the raw dataset. The assembled genome was available in the Figshare repository. The assembled genomic data was compared to C. hemipterus data obtained using 454 Roche shotgun sequencing (BioProject, PRJNA308532), downloaded from NCBI. The draft genome data from this work demonstrated larger data volumes and an updated assembly of the C. hemipterus genome with better scaffolding compared to genome data obtained from 454 Roche shotgun sequencing ., (© 2024 The Author(s).)

The bed bug (Cimex lectularius L.) is one of the most prolific and burdensome indoor pests, and suppression of bed bug populations is a global priority. Understanding bed bug behavior is important to the development of new tactics for their control. Major gaps exist in our understanding of how host cues, insecticide resistance, and exposure modality impact the repellency of formulated products to bed bugs. Here, we validate the use of a binary choice olfactometer for assessing bed bug repellency behaviors using N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) in a dose-dependent manner, while considering the role of host-associated stimuli (with vs. without CO2), exposure modality (olfactory vs. olfactory and contact), and resistance status (susceptible vs. resistant) on repellency. We observed that host-seeking insecticide-susceptible bed bugs were repelled only when olfactorily exposed to high concentrations of DEET. However, exposure to DEET by contact repelled insecticide-susceptible bed bugs at 100-fold lower dose of DEET. Further, we demonstrate for the first time that insecticide-resistant bed bugs were significantly more responsive to DEET than susceptible bed bugs. We conclude that the 2-choice olfactometer is an effective tool for assessing the behavioral responses of bed bugs to spatial and contact repellents., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America.)

Bed bugs, Cimex lectularius L. and C. hemipterus (F.) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) are hematophagous ectoparasites of humans. Since the resurgence of bed bugs in the late 1990s there has been a corresponding emphasis on development and implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) programs to manage infestations. One critical requirement of IPM is the ability to detect and monitor the target pest. We outline and describe the majority of all known existing devices and technologies developed for bed bug detection and monitoring as well as much of the underlying science. Almost 40 detection and monitoring products have flooded the marketplace, but for various reasons, including price, size, complexity and lack of independent scientific evaluation, they have not been widely adopted for IPM in structures. One product, the ClimbUp® Insect Interceptor, has nine competitors that utilize a similar design. This review also discloses many other technologies and products that are either too expensive or too impractical for use as either consumer or industrial products. We conclude that there is a critical need for inexpensive and effective detection and monitoring traps and lures suitable for widespread adoption by the urban pest control industry. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the most abundant insect orders on earth, most Hemipteran insects are phytophagous, with the few hematophagous exceptions falling into two families: Cimicidae, such as bed bugs, and Reduviidae, such as kissing bugs. Many of these blood-feeding hemipteran insects are known to be realistic or potential disease vectors, presenting both physical and psychological risks for public health. Considerable researches into the interactions between hemipteran insects such as kissing bugs and bed bugs and their human hosts have revealed important information that deepens our understanding of their chemical ecology and olfactory physiology. Sensory mechanisms in the peripheral olfactory system of both insects have now been characterized, with a particular emphasis on their olfactory sensory neurons and odorant receptors. This review summarizes the findings of recent studies of both kissing bugs (including Rhodnius prolixus and Triatoma infestans) and bed bugs (Cimex lectularius), focusing on their chemical ecology and peripheral olfactory systems. Potential chemosensation-based applications for the management of these Hemipteran insect vectors are also discussed.

The bacterium Burkholderia multivorans is an opportunistic nosocomial pathogen of humans. A previous study reported molecular detection of this bacterium in several specimens of the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius L.) collected from an elderly care facility in the U.S.A., raising questions about the possibility of vector‐borne transmission. However, the ability of B. multivorans to colonize bed bugs and the ability of bed bugs to transmit the bacteria both remained untested. To resolve this knowledge gap, here we performed a set of experiments to examine the persistence and shedding of B. multivorans following ingestion by bed bugs in a blood meal. We isolated viable B. multivorans from the bodies of bed bugs for up to 13 days post‐ingestion, but bacterial load substantially diminished over time. By 16 days post‐ingestion, the bacteria could not be isolated. Further, B. multivorans was not shed in the saliva of infected bugs during feeding nor was it transmitted vertically from infected insects to their progeny. Based on these results, significant biological or mechanical transmission of B. multivorans to humans by bed bugs appears unlikely. Nonetheless, some viable bacteria were passively shed into the environment through defecation, a process which could potentially contribute to transmission through indirect contamination under rare circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To evaluate whether bed bugs are associated with allergic reactions in patients seen in the emergency department (ED). Methods and Results: This retrospective study included data from 9 EDs in Ohio between February 2011 and February 2017. The study comprised 332 patients with bed bug infestation matched 1:15 with 4952 control patients without bed bugs on the basis of age, sex and the presenting ED. Compared with uninfested patients, patients infested with bed bugs were more likely to have an ED or inpatient diagnosis of pruritus, hives or urticaria (odds ratio [OR], 9.12 [95% CI, 3.41‐24.42]) and to be treated in the ED with an antihistamine (OR, 3.20 [95% CI, 1.87‐5.50]) or albuterol (OR, 1.59 [95% CI, 1.07‐2.36]) (P ≤.02 for all). There were no significant differences in the rates of anaphylaxis and angioedema diagnosed in patients with and without bed bugs, which occurred in <1% in both groups. Conclusion: Bed bug–infested patients are more likely to be diagnosed and treated for itchy cutaneous rashes, but are not clearly associated with more severe allergic reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cimicid insects, bed bugs and their allies, include about 100 species of blood-feeding ectoparasites. Among them, a few have become widespread and abundant pests of humans. Cimicids vary in their degree of specialization to hosts. Whereas most species specialize on insectivorous birds or bats, the common bed bug can feed on a range of distantly related host species, such as bats, humans, and chickens. We suggest that association with humans and generalism in bed bugs led to fundamentally different living conditions that fostered rapid growth and expansion of their populations. We propose that the evolutionary and ecological success of common bed bugs reflected exploitation of large homeothermic hosts (humans) that sheltered in buildings. This was a departure from congeners whose hosts are much smaller and often heterothermic. We argue that interesting insights into the biology of pest species may be obtained using an integrated view of their ecology and evolution.

Abstract Background Bed bugs (Heteroptera: Cimicidae) are a group of blood-feeding ectoparasites. They mainly specialize on bats and birds, but a few species are important human pests. They exhibit several unique adaptations for their parasitic lifestyle. Among those, bed bug aggregations represent a striking example of a sub-social structure. However, their benefits for the bed bugs as well as their potential for bed bug control are largely unexplored. Young nymphs are known to disperse from the aggregations much less than older ones or adults. We therefore found possible that the aggregation age structure is connected with success in finding host and tested the effect of presence of adults on nymphal feeding success. Results We tested the effect of presence of adults on feeding success of first-instar nymphs using an artificial feeding system. We found that presence of fed adults causes larger proportion of nymphs to feed. Conclusions Based on our data, fed bed bugs seem to trigger the young nymphs to actively forage. Since the first instar is much less viable than later stages, our finding points to an adaptive behavior that economizes on foraging energy cost. In the context of bed bug control, knowledge on such behavior emphasizes the prevention of fed bed bugs from returning to harborages. Bed bug traps may thus be used not just as means of bed bug monitoring, but also as means of control.

Introduction: Bed bugs are considered as public health nuisance insects, which can feed on humans and cause psychological distress, insomnia, anxiety, anemia, and skin itching in individuals. The aim of this study was to design and implement a mobile application "identification, prevention, and control of bed bug", and also to assess the satisfaction of mobile users with this application. Method: In the first phase of this study, the mobile application that includes three steps of identification, prevention, and control of bed bug, was designed and installed on the people's mobile phone. In the second phase, a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 mobile users using an electronic questionnaire. Descriptive data were analyzed by SPSS version 18. Results: The satisfaction rate of the application users in most of the questions was at high level (more than 80%). According to the users' answers to the question about the impact of educational data presented through this application, its impact was high (78%). Conclusion: Due to high accessibility, this application increases individuals' knowledge, saves cost and time to control bed bugs, therefore, the use of this mobile health application is recommended.

Common bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L.) are hematophagous pests present in urban environments across the globe. It is widely established that they have a strong host preference for humans. However, there are records of C. lectularius feeding upon a range of mammalian and avian hosts, including rodents, in the field. There is little information available about how frequently common bed bugs feed on alternative hosts in residential settings, but understanding this phenomenon has implications for both management of infestations and public health. Here, we examined cohorts of C. lectularius collected from 13 different dwellings in the state of New Jersey, USA, that were known to be simultaneously infested with house mice (Mus musculus domesticus). Host-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to determine if blood meals were taken from mice, while 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was used to screen the bed bugs for the presence of zoonotic bacterial pathogens. We found no evidence that any of the bed bugs we collected fed on mice. Furthermore, the insects harbored depauperate bacterial communities that did not include known human pathogens. However, host-specific qPCR detected feline DNA in a pool of bed bugs from one dwelling, suggesting that interaction with domestic pets should be further investigated. Although sampling in this study was limited, the approach described herein will be useful for additional studies of the interactions between bed bugs and alternative blood meal hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]