The notoriety of bed bugs show that vampires are not the only popular blood suckers in society. Scientifically known as cimex lectularius, bed bugs are tiny, brownish flat-like insects that function mostly overnight. During the day bed bugs prefer to situate themselves in areas people normally sleep on. Their small bodies enable them to fit in the smallest of spaces, especially those associated with headboards, box springs and mattresses. Unlike ants or bees, bed bugs do not congregate in a single area.
The problems of bed bugs are even documented in writings about medieval Europe, and classical Greek during the time of Aristotle. Bed bugs were already known to feed on wild hosts, mainly birds and bats.
Bed bugs were trouble particularly before World War II due to the poor focus on cleanliness and proper hygiene. However, the bugs nearly vanished in the 1940’s and 1950’s because of the widespread use of various pesticides. Later, less effective pesticides and reforms in pest control methods enabled these bugs to make a comeback and again become a pest in society.
The Big Bugs
Adult bed bugs are normally misidentified as ticks or cockroaches, as they are about ¼ inch in length with flat and hard bodies. These insects can move swiftly on floors, ceiling, walls and other surfaces, but they cannot fly. The female bed bugs can lay as many as 500 eggs during their lifespan and choose secluded areas to make do so.
When the eggs hatch, the baby bugs, or nymphs, can fully develop as fast as a month. Cool areas, or where there is no access to blood, will prolong the development time. The nymphs can survive for several months without feasting, while the adults can last for about a year.
Bite Me
People in deep sleep are normally the prime targets of bed bugs. Someone who is being fed upon may not even notice that he has become dinner for the bed bug, as engorgement normally lasts for around three minutes or even less than a minute. Bite scars result in a red welt or slight swelling of the skin.
People that travel often, do not regularly clean their beds, or use pre-owned beds should be concerned that they will be eventually attacked. However, bed bugs are not viewed as a serious disease threat, as there is little chance that they can transmit any harmful virus to humans. If bitten, you may want to prevent complications from bed bug bites by applying antibiotic cream or antiseptic to the infected area of the body.
In addition, it is best not to scratch the infected area. Similar to mosquito bites, scratching only makes the infection worse.
Control ‘em bugs
The proliferation of bed bugs has been a problem for many centuries. The length of time they have been causing headaches indicates that the ideal way to control them has yet to be developed. It is wise for a person with a bed bug issue to hire a professional pest control group to help solve his dilemma.
Those with a long experience in the pest industry will know where bed bugs locate. To assist the pest solvers, clients should at least clean their environment from excess junk. The inspectors could be forced to examine nearby rooms, as bed bugs have the ability to disperse into different areas of a building.
Dispose of the bed
The bed is usually the main breeding ground of bugs. If a bed has holes and tears it is likely that these contain eggs inside or out. Pest control companies normally advise their clients to dispose of beds that are heavily infested or in poor condition.
Bed bugs do not choose what type of bed they will settle in, as they put more importance on the warm blooded individual occupying it for an extended period of time. Bed bugs can even settle in sleeping bags, egg foam, or even stacks of cardboard on the floor. Any place where people sleep is always the perfect area for bed bugs to roam. Water beds are also included, as these have nooks and crannies and are often warm, which is the preferred temperature of these insects.
Despite various alternatives to control bed bugs, it is safe to say they are here to stay. Just remember, the best way not to become a bed bug victim is by putting a premium on good hygiene and cleanliness.