Q – I’ve read that bed bugs are becoming a big problem again. How do I know if I have them and what can I do to get rid of them? -Laura in Atlanta
A – It’s true. Bed bugs are again becoming a major problem with reports of infestations. And if we get off and travel more, it means the number of bed bug reports will increase even more.
A bed bug is a tiny living thing that feeds on the blood of warm-blooded animals. Your home can be affected in several ways:
– About bugs and eggs that “limp” on clothing and luggage (see 5 things for ways to make your trip free of bed bugs)
– From contaminated objects (e.g. furniture, clothing) that you have brought home
– From a nearby apartment or contaminated objects
– Of wild animals and domestic animals
The bed bug isn’t confined to your bed or bedroom. It will travel within your home in search of you or some other warm-blooded animal to feed on.
If you think you might have a bed bug infestation, examine the area closely. Bed bugs are usually found in dark crevasses and eggs can be found in the fabric of your furniture. Aside from bite symptoms, there are signs of feces stains, blood smears on sheets, and molting.
– Note – Only about half the time will you notice or feel the bed bug bite. Generally, you will find a rash or an itchy patch of skin on your body.
Once your home is infested, you will need the help of a professional pest control company to clear your home.
For me, the real nuisance of the bed bug is that once it hits your home, it can be time consuming. Furniture often needs to be taken apart for the pest control company to start working. This can be tedious and needs to be done very thoroughly.
Pest control companies use a variety of vacuums and poisons to remove the pest from your home. Treatment may require a few visits as well as a few more inspections to make sure your problem has been resolved.
This is a problem that won’t go away on its own, so stay tuned!
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