Recent Resurgence of Bedbugs

In recent years, bedbugs have made a comeback in many parts of the world. The reasons for this resurgence are not entirely clear, but factors such as increased international travel, resistance to pesticides/Banning DDT, and lack of public awareness and education may be contributing to the problem.

In the latter half of the 20th century, public health departments began seeing more infestations of bedbugs all across the globe. Infestations have been reported in all 50 US states as well as in many other countries around the world. Unfortunately for us, this trend also applies to most of Canada.

Today, bedbugs continue to be a significant pest problem, and their eradication often requires a combination of insecticides, heat treatments, and thorough cleaning. While bedbugs do not transmit disease, their bites can cause irritation, itching, and in rare cases, allergic reactions.

General Information about Bedbugs

Bedbugs are small, oval-shaped insects that are typically brownish-red in color. They are about the size of an apple seed and can range in size from 1mm to 7mm in length. These pests do not fly but can move quickly over floors, walls, and ceilings. Bedbugs can go several months without feeding and can survive in a wide range of temperatures.

Bedbugs are most commonly found in mattresses, box springs, and bedding but can also be found in furniture, behind baseboards, and in other crevices and cracks in walls and floors. They are attracted to warmth, carbon dioxide, and other chemicals produced by humans and other animals.

Bedbugs are not known to transmit diseases to humans, but their bites can be uncomfortable and can cause an allergic reaction in some people. The bites can appear as red, itchy welts and are often found in a line or cluster.

Signs that bedbugs are in your house

There are 5 signs that may indicate the presence of bedbugs in your house. Here are a few common ones to look out for:

1. Live bedbugs
   If you're able to spot live bedbugs, they are typically reddish-brown in colour, and about the size and shape of an apple seed. If you are lucky, there are still only a few.
   
2. Bites
   Bedbugs typically feed on human blood while you're sleeping, leaving behind itchy, red bite marks on your skin. These bites may be grouped together in a line or cluster.
3. Blood stains
   After feeding, bedbugs may leave small bloodstains on your bedding or clothing.
4. Fecal matter
   Bedbugs also leave behind fecal matter, which looks like small, dark specks. You may find this on your bedding or near the areas where bedbugs are hiding.
5. Musty odour
   Bedbugs emit a distinct, musty odour that may be noticeable in a room where they are present.
   

Prevention & Control of Bedbug Infestations

Preventing and treating bedbug infestations can be challenging. Prevention measures include inspecting second-hand furniture and avoiding bringing used furniture into the home, sealing cracks and crevices, and using mattress and box spring encasements. If an infestation is suspected, it is important to contact a pest control professional who has experience in dealing with bedbugs.

Treatment options for bedbug infestations include insecticides, heat treatments, and in rare cases fumigation (house tenting). It is important to follow the recommendations of the pest control professional and to take steps to prevent re-infestation after treatment.

Bedbugs are a common problem in households, hotels, and other residential and commercial properties. Although they do not transmit diseases to humans, their bites can be uncomfortable and can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Prevention and treatment of bedbug infestations can be challenging, and it is important to seek the assistance of a pest control professional with experience in dealing with these pests.