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It’s not just a nursery rhyme anymore, it’s a way of life. Bedbugs are a real concern for people, especially those that travel, but those that stay close to home aren’t exempt from the threat of bedbugs. Luckily, bedbugs are more of a nuisance than a health hazard. Although not a health risk, it is imperative that you call a licensed pest professional if you think you have a bedbug infestation.
Bedbugs are small, flat, wingless insects with 6 legs. Like mosquitoes, bedbugs feed on the blood of animals and humans. They are brown in color and turn a reddish brown after a feeding. Read more on how to ID a bedbug HERE.
Bedbugs are great hitchhikers. They can catch a ride on luggage, purses, clothing, pets, boxes, and other belongings that are taken from place to place. That is why bedbugs are often found in hotels, apartments, dorm rooms, places where people often come and go. Bedbugs are a world-wide issue. At one time, they were most common in developing countries but due to increased international travel, they are an issue in the US and other developed countries.
As stated earlier, bed bugs feed on blood from humans and animals. They typically feed at night. After they feed, they become engorged and fall off of their host. It only takes them about 3 minutes to complete their meal. They can go weeks without feeding.
Bedbugs inject a numbing agent in the body when feeding. In most cases, you won’t know if you are being bitten by a bedbug.
Bedbugs bites are itchy, red bumps, usually left in a straight line, on the skin. Bites are usually found on the upper body.
It’s simple. Hire a licensed pest professional if you think you have a bedbug infestation. They can be very difficult to treat. In the mean time, inspect all mattresses and bedding, especially when traveling. Avoid putting your luggage on the floor or bed, instead use a luggage rack. When returning home, wash and dry clothing on the highest heat level. Make sure to check the cracks and crevices of any luggage before storing.
We know that bugs are gross and unsanitary but did you also know that they can be bad for our health. WebMD discusses some of the worst bugs and the potential harm they can do to our health:
Tips to prevent feeling the sting of these health issues:
For more information on these insects and their health hazards, visit WebMD: Bad Bugs Slideshow: Identifying Bugs and Their Bites.
If you think you may have been bitten or stung by any of the insects above, please take note of your body’s reaction and seek medical assistance immediately.
It is Spring Break time here in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. It’s a time that parents and kids both look forward to. A lot of people will be going out of town this spring break and staying in hotels. I’m sure you’ve seen media reports of bed bug outbreaks across the US. Hotels are being hit pretty hard with bed bug infestations and it is something that travelers need to be aware of. The truth is that you are more than likely not going to experience bed bugs in your hotel room or home but it is always best to be educated and aware!
Many wonder why the number of outbreaks has risen in recent years, it is suspected that increase in travel, less effective household pesticides, resistance to pesticides and lack of awareness are among the main reasons. The key to avoiding bed bugs is early detection. Make sure you are checking mattresses and other upholstery items when traveling. Know that bed bugs are not a sign of a sanitation issue with the hotel; they are often brought in by other guests.
What to Look For:
How to Search Hotel Rooms for Bed Bugs:
The thought of bed bugs and their bites are unnerving to say the least. However, you may find comfort in knowing that bed bug bites are not dangerous because they do not carry human diseases. All of that being said, you want to be sure that you do not carry these pests home with you from vacation. Bed bugs are not only difficult to treat but can be an expensive treatment.
Tips for returning home:
At the end of the day, we want you to have the best time on your spring break or other vacation. We just want to make sure that you are not bringing home anything that wasn’t supposed to come home with you. As we said earlier, the key is to be educated and aware.
If you have more questions on bed bugs or think that your home may have bed bugs, call Northwest Exterminating. We have a dedicated team of experts that specialize in bed bug treatment.
Other Additional Links:
https://www.callnorthwest.com/pest-control/bed-bug-control/
https://www.callnorthwest.com/learning-center/identify-your-pest/bed-bugs/
NPMA Releases Bed Bug Best Management Practices for Pest Professionals