Frequently Asked Questions About Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are notoriously hard to get rid of. They are extremely prolific and will breed fast if they are not controlled efficiently.

A few decades ago, bed bugs were not an issue in developed countries. However, according to the CDC, bed bug infestations have become more common since the early 2000s in countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

What are bed bugs?

Bed bugs are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals while they are asleep. They are reddish-brown, about the size of an apple seed, and they do not have wings so they cannot fly or jump. These insects can live for months without food and can easily hide in the folds and seams of luggage, clothes, and bags.

Where are they found?

Bed bugs are a global problem. The presence of bed bugs has traditionally been seen as an issue in developing countries. However, these parasitic insects have recently been spreading rapidly in parts of the United States. A common misconception is that the presence of bed bugs equals unclean living conditions. Yet, they can be found in five-star hotels and resorts.

Bed bugs are found in and near areas where humans sleep. They fear light, so they hide during the day in places like bed frames, box springs, mattresses, headboards, bedside tables, behind wallpaper, and in any other crack or crevice they can find. They are known to travel as much as 100 feet at night, but they prefer to live within 8 feet of where people are sleeping.

Do they spread disease?

The current medical position is that bed bugs do carry disease organisms, but they are not known to transmit disease. However, what can result from bed bugs bites is a secondary infection. If the bites are not cleaned and disinfected, they can lead to swelling and bleeding. Infections are more likely to develop in those with suppressed immune systems, children, the elderly, and those who are unable to walk or are bedridden.

Some people have experienced an allergic reaction, especially when exposed to multiple bites. In these cases, a person may require medical attention.

How do you get bed bugs?

Bed bugs are hitchhikers. They fasten onto clothes, linens, luggage, and can end up wherever these items are taken. This is why they are so quickly spread. Also, it can be difficult to identify bed bug bites because they can look similar to other insect bites, and this can make infestations challenging to detect. Bed bugs breed quickly and can easily become an infestation that is very difficult to control and eliminate.

If you recently bought second-hand furniture, this can bring an infestation into your home. It is also known that movie theaters and other places where people frequently sit can easily spread bedbugs.

What are the signs of an infestation?

There are several signs of a bed bug infestation. Some of the most common signs include:

• Bug bites, red itchy spots that swell
• Unexplained musty odor in your home
• Bloodstains on your sheets
• Dark, rusty-colored spots on your mattress and bedding
• Dark spots on the walls
• White, husk-like specks left behind

Who is at risk for getting bed bugs?

When visiting an infected area, everyone is at risk of getting bed bugs. People who travel frequently and share living or sleeping quarters where other people have often stayed have a higher chance of being bitten by bed bugs and possibly spreading an infestation.

What do you do if you have bed bugs?

If you suspect a bed bug infestation, then you should get in touch with a professional bed bug exterminator right away. Several treatments may be required, and our bed bug exterminators will do everything they can do to get rid of them and prevent their return.

Because it is so hard to get rid of bed bugs, we highly recommend hiring a specialized service team to do this job. Using home remedies or over-the-counter solutions may get rid of some of the bugs, but you would have to use these methods continuously.