subject: Bed Bug Populations Surge, Is it Too Late to Stem the Tide? [print this page] Bed Bug Populations Surge, Is it Too Late to Stem the Tide?
All of these methods are effective in treating an identified infestation and hopefully preventing some infestations, but do nothing to provide a long term solution. As the numbers of bed bugs and the places they infest grows, so will the difficulty and complexity of prevention by current means. It seems reasonable to me that a better solution is needed. We need a broad and far reaching approach aimed at more easily destroying and preventing these pests from spreading. I certainly don't advocate bringing back DDT but, perhaps, something with a similar effect on these bugs, without the risks or environmental effects that DDT had. May be an effective, long-lasting, Cimex specific, insect growth regulator could be the solution. Perhaps we can look at natural bed bug pathogens or parasites. If things get bad enough we may have to resort to chemical means. It seems obvious to me that, if we don't develop a powerful method for control and prevention, we will end up with bed bugs and the chronic suffering that they bring, as part of normal life. I, for one, see that outcome as unacceptable.
