Evaluating the mechanical vector potential of the common bed bug Cimex lectularius (Hemiptera:Cimicidae) in urban enviroments

Cimex lectularius (Hemiptera:Cimicidae) known commonly as bed bugs seemingly disappeared, mostly attributed to the discovery of residual insecticides. Recently, bed bug populations experienced a major resurgence in their population sizes and have once again become major urban pests. This resurgence is attributed to insecticide resistance amongst the populations. Since bed bug populations are expanding and persist in urban communities, there exists a potential emerging medical issue associated with these insects. There exists a lack of research based evidence associated with bed bug disease pathogen vectoring potential. This study conducted at the Rollins Urban and Structural Entomology Facility illustrates bed bug potential as mechanical vectors. Bed bug mechanical vectoring was tested using a fluorescing K-12 Escherichia coli. Mechanical vectoring was evaluated first on agarose surfaces. Further studies were conducted with surfaces commonly associated with bed bug habitats: cloth sheets, wooden surfaces, and commercial vinyl tile. Finally, a study was conducted to measure the potential of bed bugs to horizontally translocate bacteria from one bed bug to another.