The situation of bed bugs in Colombia and Spain: Epidemiology, sociodemographic characteristics, and status of insecticide resistance

Bed bugs continue to spread rapidly and data about the characteristics of infestations are relatively scarce in some regions of the world. This study aims to contribute to the knowledge concerning the characteristics of bed bug infestations in Colombia and Spain. We conducted a survey among pest control companies in Colombia and Spain to characterize risk factors associated with bed bug infestations. We also collected 64 samples of bed bugs to determine species and evaluate resistance to pyrethroids and neonicotinoids. From the 900 surveys distributed, 31 were completed and returned (17 and 14, Colombia and Spain, respectively). Responders reported an increase of bed bug infestations from previous years. Most infestations were reported from nursing homes in Colombia, and private residences and hostels, in Spain. Out of the 4 specimens collected in Colombia, three were Cimex lectularius, while one was Cimex hemipterus. In Spain all 60 specimens were C. lectularius. Residences of infested places were low-income strata and included Caucasian, Mestizos, Mulattos, Blacks and Asians. A larger proportion of infestations were reported in family flats (89%). Acquisition of second hand-furniture (15%) or its pick up from the street (53%) were reported by residents. Responders reported bed bugs in beds (95%), electric outlets (92%), sofas (79%), amongst others. Ongoing studies are assessing the levels of resistance to insecticides in bed bug samples. This study contributes to understand epidemiological and sociodemographic characteristics of bed bug infestations and the situation of insecticide resistance in Colombia and Spain.