FAIRFAX, Va .– (BUSINESS WIRE) – As many Americans prepare to take their summer vacation over the next few months, experts from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) are reminding travelers to be aware of hitchhiking during Bed Bug Awareness Week on June 7th. 13. This annual observation, recognized on Chase’s calendar of events, reminds travelers that a tiny pest could be a huge problem if not caught early.
“Bed bugs can be found virtually everywhere, and while many Americans are excited to resume their travel plans as home stay orders are slowly being removed across the country, it is imperative that they remember to remain vigilant about bed bugs.” said Brittany Campbell. Ph.D., Entomologist for the NPMA. “Bed bugs can survive for several months without a blood meal. Since many hotels have had low occupancy in recent months, bed bugs are hungry and can come out to feed in broad daylight – a dramatic change in behavior for a pest notorious for feeding at night. ”
To prevent bed bugs from being brought home, travelers should conduct a thorough room inspection immediately upon entering and report any signs of infestation to management.
From April 2019 to April 2020, there was a 70 percent increase in online conversations about bed bugs in the United States. There were more than 6.1 million conversations in the last month alone. * To ensure travelers don’t unknowingly transport hitchhikers with them, NPMA recommends the following steps to prevent infestation on their return home:
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When entering the bathroom, place your suitcase on a tile floor or work surface rather than on a carpeted floor or bed.
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Examine the entire space thoroughly, including behind the headboard, under lamps, and in dressers, drawers, sofas, and chairs.
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Pull back the sheets on the bed and examine the mattress seams, particularly at the corners, for any tell-tale stains or stains.
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Carry a small flashlight to assist you with visual inspections.
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If you see anything suspicious, change rooms / facilities immediately. Do not stay in an adjacent room.
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Store your luggage in plastic bags or on the tiled floor for the duration of your stay.
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Vacuum and inspect suitcases outdoors after returning from vacation. Do not bring the case home until it has been inspected.
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Contact a licensed pest control professional if an infestation is suspected in your home.
You can find more information about bed bugs at PestWorld.org.
* The results of the online engagement are the result of research by Advanced Symbolics Inc.
Via the National Pest Management Association
The NPMA, a non-profit organization of more than 5,500 members, was founded in 1933 to support the pest control industry’s commitment to protecting public health, food and property from the disease and threat posed by pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube.
