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Most of us have heard someone say, "Sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite." But did you know the remark could have had a quite literal meaning? During the latter part of the 20th century, bed bugs became relatively scarce. But due to the increase in international travel and the restrictions placed on many pesticides, they are making a comeback. In fact, bed bugs have become such a problem that H.R. 6068, Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite Act of 2008 is currently awaiting approval by Congress!

What to Look For
Bed bugs are small, wingless, reddish-brown insects that feed entirely upon the blood of warm-blooded animals and are posing an increasing threat to apartments, hotels, cruise ships, dormitories, shelters, and even single-family homes. Hatchlings are about the size of a poppy seed, and adults are about 1/4" long. They appear oval in shape from above, but actually have flattened bodies from top to bottom. This allows them to squeeze in to the tiniest nooks and crannies.

Where to Look
Bed bugs are most frequently found in rooms where people sleep. During the day, they prefer to hide in cracks and crevices in and around the bed or other furniture that may be used for sleeping. These tiny blood-suckers may also be found in the folds and creases of bed linens, in the pleats of curtains, beneath loose wallpaper near the bed, in corners of desks and dressers, and particularly, in the seams and tufts of mattresses and box springs. On occasion, dark brown or reddish spots may be evident on the bed linens, mattresses, or walls.

Controlling Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are particularly challenging pests to control and inspections and treatments must be very thorough. Bed bug infestations almost always require the assistance of a professional pest control company, but there are important steps owners and occupants must take to aid in the elimination.

The first step is to remove excess clutter. This is essential to both the inspection and treatment process. The next step is to thoroughly clean the infested rooms. Infested surfaces should be scrubbed with a stiff brush to dislodge eggs. Dismantling bed frames and nearby furniture will expose additional hiding sites. Finally, a powerful vacuum should be used to remove bed bugs from cracks and crevices.

Bed Bug Bites
Bed bugs will feed on any area of exposed skin while we're sleeping. People rarely feel the bite when it actually happens. Usually an itchy red welt will develop a day or so after the bite.

Keep in mind that the level of cleanliness has little to do with most bed bug infestations. Pristine homes, hotels, and apartments have plenty of hiding places and an abundance of warm-blooded hosts. If you suspect you may have a problem, consult with a professional before you go to bed with bed bugs!

Related Document: Fall 08 Newsletter_1.pdf (Fall 2008 Newsletter )

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