We had participants from various disciplines, including urban and medical entomologists, biodiversity scientists, and researchers focused on human rights and gender equality, all of whom work closely with local communities. The topic of discussion was bed bugs, which are linked to social issues affecting vulnerable populations such as the disabled, the elderly, and migrant workers.
Bed bugs are adept at hitchhiking, making it easy for anyone—especially travelers—to inadvertently transport these blood-sucking insects to local residents. Fortunately, there is limited evidence of bed bugs transmitting pathogens. However, their presence disrupts sleep and rest, leading to mental health challenges such as stress and depression, which can negatively impact daily life.
To effectively manage bed bug issues, we need a multi-disciplinary approach that considers local contexts, including varying climates, indoor environments, cultural factors, and living conditions. This session served as an introductory course, and we look forward to future discussions. Our goal is to establish a small working group to address these challenges.
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