bed bug

Bed bugs are becoming an increasing concern for homeowners and travelers. The big question is…how do I protect myself, my family, and my home from these little bloodsucking pests?! Here are 5 bed bug facts that will leave you pest-free.

 

1.  Are bed bugs microscopic?

Nope, nope, and nope. Adult bed bugs are oval-shaped, reddish-brown in color, wingless, and are about the size of an apple seed. Immature bed bugs resemble the adult pests but are much smaller in size and lighter in color.

 

2. Where can bed bugs be found? 

Bed bugs may be found in any location associated with humans including homes, hotels, dormitories, and cruise lines. Essentially, bed bugs can reside in any location containing humans. In bedrooms, bed bugs tend to harbor in mattress crevices or seams, on bed frames, behind baseboards, wall outlets, and in dresser drawers. However, bed bugs can be found in additional areas depending on the initial location of the introduction and the size of the population. Locations include: living room furniture, luggage, and wall-mounted picture frames to name a few.

 

3. Do bed bugs transmit disease? 

Bed bugs are specialized to feed on blood but unlike mosquitoes their feeding is not associated with disease transmission but bites may cause observable reactions. Bite reactions vary between persons ranging from no response, prolonged itching, welt development, to extreme allergic reactions.

 

4. How do I prevent bed bug infestations? 

Bed bugs are easily moved between locations, so the best way to prevent an infestation is to avoid picking the insects up. When traveling, inspect your room upon arrival and inspect your luggage/clothing for bug presence before departing. Upon arriving back home, make sure you inspect all of your items and place any clothing into the dryer. Bed bugs and their eggs cannot survive prolonged temperatures above 120 F. Also, take the time to thoroughly inspect any second-hand furniture or items that you receive.

 

5. What should I do if I do find bed bugs? 

Call a pest control company. Many over the counter pest control products list bed bugs on their label but oftentimes their use doesn’t solve the issue. So, call a professional as soon as you can to prevent the bugs from becoming an insufferable problem.

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