The common bedbug is a human parasite, unlike other parasites they are only on their human host to feed, and then move off to hide, rest and lay eggs. Some people bitten may experience itching and swelling at the site of the bite, while others may have no reaction at all. These bites may appear in sets of three. Bed bugs have not been shown to transmit any diseases to humans.
A possible reason for the increase in bedbug complaints is greater international travel. Hotels may become infested with bedbugs and visitors may bring them bag in their luggage as well as on their clothes. Theaters and airplane seats have also been found to be infested.
Bedbug Biology:
Female Bedbugs lay their eggs in cracks or cement them to rough surfaces. Each bedbug will grow through five stages before it reaches adulthood and will require a blood meal before each stage. They are capable of resisting starvation for a few months at a time and possibly even up to a year. They will feed on other hosts such as birds or rodents, but prefer human blood.
What they look like:
Adult Bedbugs may be 1/5 inch long. They have a flat body which allows them to crawl into narrow cracks. They do not have wings. They normally appear reddish brown but after feeding can appear “blood red”.
Hiding Places:
• Bottoms of mattresses (small black spots in a cluster usually accompanies an infestation)
• Coils of bed or bed springs
• Cracks in wooden bed set
• Upholstered furniture
• Electrical outlets
• Backsides of pictures
• Behind wall paper
• Between floor boards
• Window casings
Treatment:
Treatment includes using a pesticide to spray the infected area.
Bedbug Prep:
Most commercial treatment will most likely not work, and need professional treatment. 90% rubbing alcohol will be effective in killing any bedbugs it comes in contact with, but will not kill any that it does not come in contact with. Preparation before treatment is vital to making the treatment successful. Once you notice you have bed bugs do not hesitate to call or the problem will become worse. This treatment may take up to two or three times.
Wash clothes and bedding affected on hot, dry and place in sealed plastic bags until treatment has given to the affected area(s).
