Bug Bite at night!

[davegap78]

I found a t shirt to wear to bed in my closet..I crawled into bed and felt this stinging on my back.. I passed it off as something until 10 seconds later I felt it again.  I pulled off my shirt and fell out this elongated larvae. I researched it and found it to be a carpet beetle larvae.   My back has two red blotches on it.  Is there some new aggressive species of Carpet Beetles out there?  These little larvae are nasty.. they remind me of silver fish...but brown.

I guess my question is.... do carpet beetle larvae really bite?  

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

These larvae may not necessarily bite but they do have fine hairs on their bodies which may sting. If the red spots do persist, you may need to apply a topical corticosteroid or topical antibiotic in the area just to help the swelling subside. Do not pick on the area. Check on the linens of your bed and do not sleep on it for a while until the beddings and linens have been thoroughly washed.

[Rowena Santos, MD]

Hi, I am not aware of  any new species. As far as i know the carpet beetle itself do not bite, sting, carry disease, or eat wood. Carpet beetle larvae feed on many types of natural fibers such as wool and wool felt, piano felt, fur, feathers, or hair can be attacked. Although there was one case of dermatitis occurred in a man over a 5-year period due to hypersensitivity to an infestation in his bedroom carpet. (http://www.critterridders.com/beetles.htm)

I hope this helps. Take care.