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Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) have been around for centuries, with their mentioning in medieval European text and in classic Greek writings dating back to the time of Aristotle. These pesky little critters have become well established worldwide and are one of the more difficult pests to control.
Infestations were common and wide spread prior to World War II. With the introduction of DDT in 1939 and Chlordane in 1948 they were able to bring bed bug infestations under reasonable control. DDT was banned from the market in 1972 and Chlordane in 1983, for any use other then termite control and completely in 1988. People had to begin to rely on different products and methods.
So what's causing the rapid rise in bed bug infestations? People traveling more frequently and traveling to foreign countries more often. While travelers are enjoying their vacation they may unknowingly be bringing an unexpected surprise home with them, BED BUGS!! Bed bugs are excellent hitch hikers and are easily transported from one location to another. Able to hide in suitcase, on clothing, and other belongings they may be difficult to detect to the untrained eye.
The use of second hand furniture is another issue that is adding to the rise of properties infested with bed bugs. While people are excited about bringing home that "new" sofa, chair, bed, box spring, etc, they may not be excited to find out that they have brought home bed bugs. More people are beginning to obtain second hand belongings as they are an affordable option for many and are often found to be in good condition. Caution should be exercised when bringing home second hand belongings as this is a easy way to introduce bed bugs to your property. If you plan to bring home second hand belongings make sure to thoroughly inspect them for any signs of bed bugs, or signs that bed bugs had previously been present.
Properties with a high turn over rate of occupancy are at a greater risk of becoming infested. Apartments, hotels, and dormitories are a few examples of such properties. These properties are at a greater risk because people are routinely moving belongings in and out of these buildings. This provides a great opportunity for individuals to transport bed bugs with them to a new location or for a person who previously did not have a problem to develop one as a result of the new location having a bed bug problem.
Bed bugs are small, oval, flattened insects, red to brown in color. As blood feeders bed bugs prefer to feed on humans, though when the presence of humans is lacking they will feed from other mammals. Bed bugs are most active during the night and are typically found close to where they feed.
Box springs, bed frames, headboard, couches and chairs, behind wallpaper and pictures, cracks in flooring, under carpet, along walls, wall voids behind outlets and light switches, and luggage are some examples of typical locations where bed bugs may be found. Bed bugs are illusive and are often difficult to detect without the help of a professional. Signs to look for that may indicate that you are dealing with a bed bug infestations include, but not limited to: blood spots or smears on the bed sheets or mattress, cast skins, or fecal matter.
Helpful tips that may decrease your risk of developing a bed bug infestation at your own property. When traveling inspect the room you are staying in. Look for any telltale signs of a bed bug infestation or that there has previously been one. Make sure to carefully inspect that mattress and headboard. Upon returning home from a vacation inspect your clothing and suitcase. If you find any signs of bed bugs call Atlantic Pest Solutions, we will be able to identify and set up a treatment plan to correct the problem.
If you believe that you have bed bugs there are several steps you can take in starting the processes of controlling them. Clean up all clutter, wash all bedding and clothing in hot water and dry at the highest temperature the fabric will allow. Once bedding and clothing are clean place them in a sealed container or bag to prevent them from becoming re-infested until a bed bug treatment can be done at the property. Vacuuming the carpet, cracks and crevices, bed and box spring can help decrease the population as well. Be certain to discard the vacuum bag in a sealed trash bag, outside.
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