There has recently been a surge of news regarding bed bugs being associated with MRSA and VRE. It is important to clarify that these strains of bacteria can be found on many surfaces and it is not surprising that bed bugs could be one of them. It has long been known that HIV, hepatitis, and many other pathogens can survive in/on bed bugs. What has not been shown is any correlation of transfer of these pathogens from one person to another via bed bugs.

The most recent study that has caused this media frenzy can be found here (CDC Website).

The patients in this study were from the Downtown Eastside (DTES) where roughly 50% of skin and soft tissue infections contain MRSA.  It is then no surprise that bed bugs in close quarters with these people could also carry the bacteria on their bodies.

Sincerely,

Sean Rollo

President of the SPMA of BC