How should a person be treated for bedbugs? - briefly
The individual should wash all clothing, linens, and personal items in water above 120 °F and dry them on high heat, then apply a professional‑grade insecticide to infested areas of the residence. If bites cause irritation, a healthcare professional may prescribe antihistamines or topical corticosteroids.
How should a person be treated for bedbugs? - in detail
Effective management of a bed‑bug infestation requires simultaneous attention to the individual’s health and the surrounding environment.
First, assess the patient for skin reactions. Identify bites, note redness, swelling, and any signs of secondary infection. If lesions are uncomplicated, cleanse the area with mild soap and water, then apply a topical antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine. For intense itching, a short course of a low‑potency corticosteroid cream can reduce inflammation; limit use to the prescribed duration to avoid skin thinning. Should bacterial infection develop—evidenced by pus, increasing warmth, or fever—prescribe an appropriate oral antibiotic based on local resistance patterns.
Second, address systemic symptoms. In cases of severe allergic response (e.g., widespread urticaria or anaphylaxis), administer oral antihistamines promptly; for anaphylaxis, inject epinephrine intramuscularly and arrange emergency care. Monitor for signs of anemia if bites are numerous and blood loss is significant, and consider iron supplementation if laboratory values indicate deficiency.
Third, eliminate the source. Conduct a thorough inspection of the sleeping area, focusing on mattress seams, box springs, headboards, and nearby furniture. Remove all bedding and wash at ≥60 °C for at least 30 minutes; dry on high heat. Encase mattress and pillow protectors with certified bed‑bug‑proof covers, sealing seams with tape. Vacuum carpets, upholstered surfaces, and cracks in walls; discard vacuum bags in sealed plastic. Apply a residual insecticide labeled for indoor use to crevices, baseboards, and furniture frames, following manufacturer safety instructions. For resistant populations, consider a combination of heat treatment (raising room temperature to 50 °C for several hours) and professional fumigation with a regulated gas such as sulfuryl fluoride.
Fourth, prevent re‑infestation. Reduce clutter that offers hiding places. Seal cracks in walls and around pipes. Encourage regular laundering of clothing and linens. Educate household members on early detection signs and proper handling of suspect items.
Finally, schedule follow‑up. Re‑examine skin lesions within a week to confirm healing, adjust medications if needed, and verify that environmental controls have been maintained. Document any recurrence promptly to modify the control strategy.