臭虫这一夜间活动的吸血昆虫近年来感染人数不断增加[1]。2018年，纽约市至少有6辆公交车因臭虫报告停运[1]。2023年，巴黎在2024年奥运会前夕报告了电影院、火车和公交车上出现的臭虫[1]。
臭虫叮咬的健康风险正在被重视。2020年，法国医学期刊报告了一名70岁男性因长期臭虫叮咬导致贫血的案例[1]。更令人担忧的是，南达科他大学2023年的实验表明，臭虫可能在一次进食中获得抗生素耐药菌MRSA并在之后传播[1]，不过这一发现仍需进一步研究证实。
预防臭虫入侵成为当务之急。专家建议通过检查行李、谨慎处理二手家具等方式防止臭虫进入家中[1]。一旦发现感染，应聘请专业灭虫人员处理，费用通常为数百至数千美元[1]。
Bedbugs are nocturnal blood-feeding insects that have become increasingly prevalent in recent years.[1] In 2018, at least six public buses in New York City were taken out of service due to bedbug reports,[1] and Paris documented bedbug infestations in movie theaters, trains, and public buses ahead of the 2024 Olympics in 2023.[1]
Beyond the nuisance of itchy bites, bedbugs pose serious health risks. A 70-year-old man in France developed anemia from prolonged bedbug bites, according to a 2020 report in a French medical journal.[1] More concerning, a 2023 University of South Dakota experiment found that bedbugs can acquire antibiotic-resistant bacteria, specifically MRSA, during a single blood meal and subsequently transmit it, though further research is needed to confirm the full implications.[1]
To prevent bedbug infestations, experts recommend inspecting luggage and handling secondhand furniture carefully.[1] If an infestation occurs, professional pest control treatment is necessary, with costs ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.[1]