"Bed bugs, long thought extinct, have made a comeback!" Recently, a video showing blood-sucking bed bugs discovered on the Beijing-Shanghai high-speed train D313 sparked widespread online concern. The poster claimed unbearable itching after being bitten! Earlier reports also mentioned multiple bed bug bites in Beijing. Zeng Xiaopeng, Deputy Director of the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, noted that bed bug bites may increase this year.Experts caution that other insects warrant greater vigilance this season than bedbugs.
Bedbugs Unseen for Years
Experts explain: Like lice and fleas, bedbugs have long since retreated from urban dwellings. This year's Beijing sightings primarily occurred in construction site dormitories and migrant worker accommodations—areas characterized by poor sanitation and high population density.
What do bed bugs look like? Experts describe them as flat, oval-shaped, reddish-brown insects with short hairs. Typically sesame-seed sized, they swell to mung bean size after feeding on human blood, making them easily detectable.
Bed bugs avoid light and are primarily nocturnal. Like mosquitoes, they feed on blood and disrupt sleep.
What should you do after a bedbug bite?
The primary harm bedbugs cause humans is blood-sucking and disturbance. Most people experience unbearable itching after being bitten, which disrupts sleep.Some develop hives or redness that persists for days, or even blisters, which can lead to secondary infections. Prolonged exposure to numerous bites may cause anemia (especially in malnourished individuals and children), physical weakness, asthma, dizziness, and insomnia, severely impacting health.If bitten by bed bugs, resist scratching the itchy areas to prevent infection. For symptoms like hives or redness, consult a dermatologist.
Travelers Beware of Stranger-Preying Mites
As crisp autumn weather arrives, many plan trips. Experts warn that mites specifically target strangers—exercise caution when traveling.
"Each region harbors distinct mite species. Locals, having endured repeated bites, develop higher tolerance and are less prone to allergic reactions. In contrast, visitors lack immunity to unfamiliar mite varieties, making allergic responses more likely."
Experts advise: If you develop a rash after traveling to a new location or returning from elsewhere, apply anti-allergy ointment as needed. Upon returning home, replace all items used during your trip, as mites from other regions may have been brought back with them.
Tips for Dealing with Insect Bites
Many people enjoy autumn outings, but encounters with mosquitoes and insects are inevitable. Here are some prevention strategies.
Caterpillars: Colorful caterpillars often appear on plant leaves with chewed marks.Common types include pine caterpillars, mulberry caterpillars, and stinging caterpillars. Most are toxic—never touch them directly to avoid being stung by their poisonous spines. If stung, resist the urge to scratch, as this will worsen swelling and intensify pain and itching. Carry adhesive tape to cover the affected area, then peel it off to remove toxic hairs and minimize harm.
Blister Beetles: When startled, blister beetles spray a highly pungent and corrosive mist. Eye contact can cause pain lasting hours, sometimes weeks to heal. Some species emit a loud "pop" when spraying, earning them the colloquial names "firecracker beetles" or "farting beetles."
Wasps: Wasps are formidable defenders. If their nest is disturbed, they will actively attack. Being stung 5 to 10 times or more can be fatal. If pursued by wasps, the only option is to flee, covering as much skin as possible with clothing. If a pond is nearby, jumping in for refuge is also an option.
Venomous Spiders: A bite from a venomous spider can be fatal. Therefore, never provoke spiders in the wild if you cannot identify whether they are poisonous.
Scorpions and Centipedes: These insects possess potent venom capable of causing severe neurological damage and hemolysis, posing a life-threatening risk.When walking, sitting, or lying down outdoors, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing rocks or mounds of soil.If stung, immediately apply a rubber tourniquet or tighten a rope above the wound toward the heart. Do not squeeze the wound. Use suction to draw out venom, then rinse and apply a wet compress with alkaline solutions like soapy water or baking soda to neutralize acidic venom. If available, take oral snake antivenom tablets and seek immediate medical attention.
Blind Beetles: Active in summer and autumn, primarily nocturnal with phototaxis. Their highly acidic bodily fluids cause severe irritation upon skin contact. Commonly affects exposed areas like limbs, face, and neck, presenting as linear or patchy edematous erythema, potentially progressing to erosion or necrosis, accompanied by intense itching and burning sensations.If exposed, immediately rinse the affected area and apply wet compresses with saline solution or baking soda water. For redness and swelling, use calamine lotion and take oral antihistamines. Seek prompt medical attention for severe reactions.
Proper clothing is crucial for avoiding insect bites. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants are essential, preferably with a hooded top to prevent insects from landing inside your collar.Avoid bright colors, especially yellow and red, which attract insects. Light blue or pale green are suitable choices, with camouflage being optimal. Opt for high-top shoes, as grassy areas may harbor snakes—ankles being the most vulnerable target for snake bites.