Toxicity of ivermectin to bed bugs (Cimex hemipterus) and risk factors associated with infestation in Kwale County, coastal Kenya.

backgroundBed bugs (Cimex spp.) are obligate ectoparasites that have long been associated with human dwellings, causing discomfort and psychosocial distress. Conventional control strategies relying on insecticides are increasingly challenged by resistance, necessitating alternative interventions. Ivermectin, an endectocide known to impact various neglected tropical diseases and hematophagous arthropods, is currently being assessed for malaria vector control. This study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of ivermectin on Cimex hemipterus, the predominant bed bug species in Africa, within the framework of the Broad One Health Endectocide-based Malaria Intervention in Africa (BOHEMIA) project in Kwale, Kenya.

methodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in 352 households to obtain information on self-reported bed bug infestations, socioeconomic status, and household characteristics. Bed bugs were collected from 40 infested households. After collection, bed bugs were acclimatized and exposed to blood meals spiked with ivermectin at five concentrations (85 ng/ml, 64 ng/ml, 43 ng/ml, 21 ng/ml, and 11 ng/ml), corresponding to expected serum levels 4 h to 6-7 days following a 400 µg/kg oral dose. Mortality and fecundity were monitored over a 14-day period. Statistical analyses, including Cox proportional hazard models and probit regression, were applied to assess dose-response relationships.

resultsBed bug infestation was common, with 75% of participating households reporting their presence, with infestations being strongly associated with the number of people residing in a household. Ivermectin exposure resulted in significant dose-dependent mortality in Cimex hemipterus, with the higher concentrations (43, 64, and 85 ng/ml) inducing over 90% mortality within 3 days postfeeding. Bed bugs that ingested blood meals containing sublethal doses of ivermectin did not lay eggs. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses demonstrated a clear inverse relationship between ivermectin concentration and bed bug survival.

conclusionsThese findings provide evidence that ivermectin, administered as part of a mass drug administration campaign, could contribute to bed bug control alongside its intended impact on other diseases or vectors. The results underscore the potential for integrated public health approaches leveraging endectocide interventions. Further field evaluations in diverse locations are needed to determine the optimal number of administrations and treatment intervals required for complete infestation elimination.