Bed Bugs

Although no official statistics exist regarding the incidence of bed bug infestation, www.bedbugregistry.com cites 20,000 reports of bed bugs since 2006.

What are bed bugs?

These little critters areactually tiny wingless bugs, approximately 5-8mm in size that are nocturnal and lust for the taste of your blood. Well-fed adult bed bugs can be as large as a pencil eraser. While you are catching some Z’s, these little “suckers” will crawl out of their hiding places (mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and carpet pads) and imperceptibly bite you and lavishly dine on your blood for several minutes before making an escape back to their cozy dens. 

Frequent body areas attacked are neck, arms and legs. Symptoms may range from almost undetectable red dots to a very itchy rash or hives. Fortunately, these teeny-tiny vampires are not known to carry any contagious diseases. Symptoms may be managed by taking antihistamines (e.g. diphenhydramine) by mouth and/or applying topical anti-itch creams (e.g. hydrocortisone cream).

Tips for Prevention and Removal

1. Remove loose linens and clutter from around your bed
2. Pull your bed several inches from the wall
3. Vacuum carefully along your base boards and behind furniture
4. Inspect beds carefully when you travel and avoid placing luggage on the floor
5. Avoid purchasing second-hand and thrift store furniture

Professional exterminators may use techniques such as:

• Dry heat
• Super cooling
• Chemical insecticides