Bed Bug Infestations on the Rise
Bed Bug Infestations on the Rise
Bed Bug Infestations on the Rise
Once one of the most common domestic urban pests, bed bugs are a highly vilified, yet misunderstood parasite, and worryingly, bed bug infestations are on the rise. Throughout human history, this highly adaptive pest has taken residence alongside their hosts- bed bugs thrive in densely populated environments, especially cities, are difficult to detect, and difficult to get rid of.
Prior to the 1940's, bed bug treatments were largely ineffective, and as such, The common bedbug (Cimex lectularius) was one of the most loathed of all domestic pests. With the development of synthetic pesticides and bed bug fumigation techniques the commonality of infestations was reduced to the point where in many places, bed bugs became part of urban mythology, something believed only experienced in the filthiest and most impoverished communities. Few people today have seen or understand how bed bugs infestations arise, yet pest controllers are reporting a steady increase in requests for both domestic and industrial bed bug treatments.
The rise in infestations is being attributed to a number of factors, and is shattering the myths about how and why people get infested in the first place. One of the most common misconceptions is that dirty conditions attract the pest- whilst such environments might make it harder to detect and get rid of bed bugs, In actuality, they are attracted by carbon dioxide exhaled by their hosts, and not dirt, and feed off blood, not waste or skin. An immaculately kept environment is no less vulnerable to attack than any other.
The recent growth in global bed bug populations is more likely to be connected to the outlawing of DDT in 1997, the increase in global mobility and travel, and a general lack of awareness as to how to prevent them. This situation is made worse by the fact that bed bugs are highly adaptive, and are becoming more resistant to chemical treatments and fumigation methods.
If you are certain of an infestation in your home, the first point of call should always where possible be a licensed pest controller. They will be best able to guide you through the options as to how to kill and get rid of bedbugs. There are however a number of factors you can consider to prevent re-infestation in the future- primarily, the need to be aware, and vigilant.
1. Be vigilent about what you bring into your home
Bed bugs like many parasites largely rely on their hosts to move them from one location to another. Be very careful when purchasing used home goods, such as bed frames, mattresses and furniture, and inspect them for any obvious signs of infestation. Bed bugs may be hard to spot, especially since they tend to hide whilst inactive, but they do leave distinctive black tracks of faecal matter when they move, and if crushed after feeding, will also leave small blood stains. Steam cleaners are now easily obtainable, and may prove invaluable for thoroughly cleaning any second hand items purchased, as well as killing any dormant pests remaining in crooks and crannies.
2. Be cautious when travelling
It is important to remember that the increased amount of people travelling internationally is believed to be one of the dominant reasons for the increase in problems relating to bed bug control. Unless you are observant, you may unwittingly bring an unwanted house guest home with you from your travels.
Be sure to research your hotel before checking in, and look for any recent negative reviews or reports of outbreaks. Check the room thoroughly for any signs; this includes soft furnishings such as curtains and cushion covers, underneath and behind bed frames and anywhere else they may hide. Hard cased luggage, as opposed to cloth is safest, since bed bugs like fabrics more than metals and plastics, and if you are still concerned, you may consider storing your clothing in air-tight zip-lock bags, which are relatively cheap to buy, and prevent bed bugs from making a new home inside your wardrobe.
3. Be proactive
Sometimes, the best offence is a good defence: Whilst the myth that bed bugs are attracted to dirt has been debunked, regular spring cleaning of mattresses and bed frames in particular will at the very least alert you to fresh signs before an infestation gets out of hand. Mattress and pillow covers designed for the purpose are valuable in limiting the number of places bedbugs might hide, and trap any survivors of a previous cull inside the mattress so they cannot feed, and will eventually die naturally.
Finally, it is important to realise that horrifying or not, bed bugs are, and will continue to be a problem. If you are concerned, always seek the help of a qualified professional pest controller- they will be able to advise you as to the best methods of pest control and prevention, and will have a much greater chance of success than attempting to remedy the situation yourself.
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