Bed Bugs Infestations on Subway

Bed bugs have been documented for thousands of years and recently cases of bed bug infestation have been on the rise. In fact, scientists have recently mapped the genetic material (genome) of bed bugs through the New York City subway system, even more surprisingly; scientists have discovered genetic diversity among these hematophagous (bloodsucking) insects.

Scientists have discovered that genetic traces of bed bugs in northern Manhattan are related to those in the islands southern side, larger variances have been found between bed bugs on the Upper East Side and the Upper West Side. Why are the variances so similar in some parts and so different in others?

Researchers indicate that bed bugs will move around with the people, and items that people carry with them.

Some scientists believe that the reasons are as simple as examining a subway map. In Manhattan, the subway lines run north to south, while there is no subway link through the central park area connecting the East Side and the West Side.

Researchers indicate that bed bugs will move around with the people, and items that people carry with them. To understand how the simple bed bug has evolved, researches took DNA sample swabs in approximately 1,400 city locations, including subway cars, ticket vending machines and turnstiles as well as parks and other locations. Imagine bed bugs clinging to the clothing of the six million daily commuters and their belongings, being washed down into stations from up above.

More on bed bugs:

Bed bugs are parasitic insects that feed exclusively on blood. The common bed bug (Cimex lectularius) is the most well-known as it has a preference for feeding upon human blood. The name “bed bug” is derived from its tendency to inhabit beds and bedding.

NYC Subway

Bed bugs are mainly active at night although they are can be found during the daylight hours. Bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases or pathogens but there are a number of adverse health effects that can result from the bite of a bed bug including skin rashes, allergic reactions and infections in people with suppressed immune systems.

Bed Bugs in NYC Subways?

Bed bugs are primarily attracted to their human hosts by carbon dioxide and warmth. Bed bugs prefer exposed skin including the face, arms and necks of a sleeping individual. Bed bugs have mouth parts that are designed to saw through the skin and inject saliva filled with anticoagulants and painkillers.

bed bug mattress staining

The bite typically produces swelling in the affected area, and reddish spots are commonplace once the swelling has subsided. Bed bugs are resilient little creatures and under optimal conditions such as the colder winter months, an adult bed bug can live for over a year without feeding.

During warmer conditions, bed bugs typically feed at either five to ten-day intervals. Adult bed bugs can survive during the warmer months for as long as five months without food.

The Bed Bug Inspectors offers expert bed bug inspection and treatment services to the whole New York City area. Contact us today if you suspect bed bugs in your home or business.


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