Bed Bug Control is a Growing Problem

Bed bug control is a growing problem in the United States and many other countries. Some experts attribute this to their increased resistance to pesticides. An increase in foreign travel and the purchase of secondhand furniture are other possible reasons for the increase in bed bug infestation cases. Bed bugs, or cimicidae, are very small parasitic insects similar to head lice, and they feed only on the blood of warm-blooded animals. They can be difficult to detect and kill, especially with their growing resistance to pesticides.

These blood-suckers are called bed bugs because they prefer to nest in places where people sleep. This may include couches or other furniture, not just a person’s bed. They are not completely nocturnal insects, but they are more active during the night. Since they are able to feed sometimes completely unnoticed during a person’s sleep, bed bug control can be difficult. Even some pest control professionals may have a hard time spotting these parasites, but some companies use dogs to detect them more quickly. They are easier to spot when a person exhibits symptoms, which can include allergic reactions, skin rashes, and psychological effects.

In cases of infestation, the bed bugs' host does not always have symptoms. Some people may have no allergic reaction, while others may only have mild reactions. It is very rare for a person to have a severe reaction to bed bugs throughout his or her whole body, like anaphylaxis. Bite marks are one of the easiest ways to detect bed bugs, but they can take up to 14 days to appear. Psychological symptoms may include anxiety or insomnia. Bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, but more research is needed to be sure. Bed bug control can be more expensive than other types of pest control because it usually requires more than one visit from a licensed professional in the field.

The pest control operators also experience difficulty with bed bugs because of their increased resistance to pesticides. They are often limited in control options to those that are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency. People experiencing bed bug problems are encouraged to call a professional, however, because they may cause the insects to become more resistant when trying to eliminate them with over-the-counter products. Some people have even been known to attempt using pesticides that are not approved for indoor use, which can have even more negative health consequences. Effectively controlling an infestation can require a number of different tactics.

Bed bug control involves the use of chemical and non-chemical pesticides. Other techniques may include using monitoring devices, applying heat treatment, and vacuuming. These insects are very good at hiding in such places as mattress seams, box springs, dresser tables, and any clutter around a bed. For this reason, another important step in getting rid of them is removing any clutter that they can hide in. Any cracks and crevices are also good hiding places, so they must be sealed.
With the resurgence of bed bug infestations in recent years, more research is ongoing by governmental agencies and entomologists to identify the best means of eliminating them. Whenever their presence is suspected, a pest control expert is the person to call.