Frequently Asked QuestionsFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BED BUGS
Q: What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed on blood. Despite their name, bed bugs can be found in a variety of environments outside of bedding such as furniture, walls, office buildings, college dormitories etc. Recently bed bugs have undergone a massive resurgence and are quickly becoming an a worldwide problem.
Q: What do bed bugs look like?
Adults are small, brownish insects, just under a ¼” long and are relatively flat. They are nearly as wide as they are long, and oval in shape. Immature bed bugs (nymphs) resemble the adults, but are much smaller and lighter in color. Newly hatched nymphs are translucent and are no bigger than a pinhead (1 mm).
Q: Do bed bugs transmit disease? What are their bite symptoms?
No. Although bed bugs carry over 28 human pathogens, there has been no documented case of bed bugs transmitting disease. The medical concerns of bed bugs are typically limited to the itching and inflammation associated with their bite. The bites effects are similar to allergic reactions and can vary from itchy welts to a severe and painful rashes that requires medical attention. Often, the emotional trauma associated with discovering a bed bug infestation is considerable.
Q: Why have bed bugs made a comeback?
Bed bugs were a common problem during WWII. The use of DDT insecticides nearly eradicated the insect from North America and they have not been a significant problem for nearly 50 years. Although changes in pest management practices and increased international travel may be blamed for the resurgence of bed bugs, the lack of public awareness may be the primary reason these bugs continue to spread at their current rate.
Q: How do you get bed bugs?
Bed bugs need to be introduced into an environment. They do not jump or fly but are excellent hitch-hikers and can be transported on clothing, luggage, used furniture and various other objects. Risk for bed bug exposure increases in several of the following situations:
Q: How will I know if I have bed bugs?
The most reliable way to confirm you have bed bugs is to contact an entomologist or pest management professional and have them identify a sample collected from your home. However, there are key warning signs that you may have an infestation:
Q: How can I prevent infestation?
There are several steps that can be taken to minimize the risk of infestation:
Q: Aren’t bed bugs typically associated with the dirty and poor?
No. Bed buds have been found everywhere from low-income housing to five-star hotels. Anywhere bedbugs can be transported, they can infest. Everyone should take precautions regardless of socio-economic status.
Q: If I think I have an infestation what should and shouldn’t I do?
Upon discovering an infestation, DO contact a licensed pest management professional to evaluate your problem. You may want to AVOID discarding bedding and mattresses as this can spread the infestation throughout the house. Also, AVOID attempting to resolve the issue yourself as improper treatment could spread the problem throughout and increase costs to eliminate the problem.
Q: How can I find specially qualified pest control companies that can deal with bed bugs?
Please visit http://www.bedbugcentral.com/bedbugfree/ for companies that utilize the same methods and approach as Bed Bug Central. If a company does not exist in your area, you may want to choose a company that utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach and has extensive experience in bed bug control.
Q: Where can I find more information on bed bugs, inspection, prevention and treatment?
For authoritative and in depth information on these topics you can visit Bed Bug Central at www.bedbugcentral.com or call 1.877.411.1142.
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