THE BEDBUG
HEALTH THREAT: No diseases are associated with bedbugs, but their bites cause itchy rashes.
PROPERTY THREAT: Bedbugs are one the hardest pests to get rid of, thier uniquely shaped body can help them hide in the smallest of crevices and can survive for up to one year without feeding.
Once considered a problem of the past, bedbugs have become a common nuisance in the United States since the early 2000's. Read on, for answers to the some of the most common Bedbug questions.
Signs of a Bedbug Infestation
Bedbugs give off a distinctively sweet, but unpleasant smell
Blood spots on mattresses and nearby furnishings
Dark brownish/black spots near areas you sleep, such as your mattresses, pillows and headboards
Caused by discarded Bedbug skins, egg shells and waste.
A line of raised red bumps or flat welt marks usually on the legs
Traits of a Bedbug
Immature: Size: Small 1/16” or 1.6 mm Body: Oval,flattened wingless insects nearly colorless, clear
Adult: Body: Oval, flattened, reddish brown, wingless Size: 1/4" to 3/8" long Note: After engorging on blood its color will be purplish-red, its body will become longer and can be mistaken for
a different insect
BEDBUG FAQ'S How did I get a Bedbug Infestation?
There’s no way to know for sure where/how an infestation originated. In recent years, bedbug cases have increased in the United States. Bed bugs can now commonly be found in almost any public setting such as clinics, dormitories, schools, public transportation vehicles, movie theaters, laundries/dry cleaners and office buildings. This of course leads to local infestations in homes and apartment buildings. How do Bedbugs travel? Bedbugs can travel on any non living item such as clothing, sheets and furniture. Unlike lice, bed bugs do not travel directly on the skin of a person. Bedbugs do not fly, but they can glide or move rapidly over most surfaces such as floors, walls and ceilings. Where am I likely to find Bedbugs?
You may find bedbugs in resting areas. Bedbugs are nocturnal creatures that are attracted to body heat. Inspect your bedframe, matresses, pillows and bed sheets. What Should I do when I know I have a Bedbug infestation? Call a professional! The Bedbug is practically undetectable before it starts to feed, due to its unique shape. Their shape allows them to hide in unusual places such as clothing, bed sheets, inside cracks and between fibers of carpet. While these small critters do not spread diseases, they can become a serious pest. Homeowners often try to exterminate the infestation themselves, not knowing that household remedies are often too weak, leading to a large-scale infestation--and problem-- in only a few weeks.
