Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that have become a significant problem in households and businesses across the United States, including several cities in New Mexico.
These tiny, flat parasites are notorious for infesting beds, couches, and other furniture, feeding on human blood while being nearly invisible to the naked eye.
Although they are not known to transmit diseases, bed bugs can cause discomfort and distress, making it important for people to know how to manage and prevent infestations.
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are oval-shaped insects that are about the size of an apple seed, and they are primarily active at night when they come out to feed on their host’s blood. Despite their small size, bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers, often traveling in luggage, clothing, or secondhand furniture from one location to another.
They prefer to hide in cracks and crevices during the day, making them difficult to spot. The name “bed bug” comes from their tendency to infest areas where people sleep, such as mattresses and bed frames, but they can also be found in other furniture like sofas and chairs.
Health Problems from Bed Bug Bites
While bed bugs are not known to spread diseases, their bites can lead to itching, swelling, and discomfort. The bites typically appear in a linear pattern and are often accompanied by redness and irritation. For some people, the bites may cause allergic reactions or secondary infections if scratched excessively.
Over-the-counter ointments or creams can help alleviate the itching and swelling caused by bed bug bites. However, it’s important to note that these insects are more of a nuisance than a serious health threat.
How Are Bed Bugs Spreading?
The resurgence of bed bugs across the U.S. has been linked to several factors, including increased human travel and the rise of secondhand furniture trading. These pests are found in homes, apartments, hotels, motels, and dormitories, and they have been known to travel easily from place to place.
A typical way bed bugs spread is by hitching a ride in luggage, clothing, or on furniture, making it challenging to prevent infestations. As people move between cities, they can inadvertently bring bed bugs with them, leading to new infestations in previously unaffected areas.
In New Mexico, cities have been seeing a spike in bed bug infestations, and local health departments are working hard to combat the issue. The problem isn’t just limited to private residences but also extends to businesses, including hotels and public buildings.
Bed bugs don’t discriminate — they thrive in both clean and unclean environments, making it essential for communities to stay vigilant.
Simple Tips to Prevent Bed Bug Infestations
There are several simple steps that can help prevent bed bug infestations at home or while traveling:
- Avoid placing bags or personal items on the floor: When in public places like offices, schools, or hotels, avoid setting your bags, purses, or backpacks on the floor, upholstered furniture, or carpeted areas. Use hooks or place your belongings on non-upholstered surfaces.
- Use mattress covers: Invest in mattress covers that provide a barrier to bed bugs. These covers prevent bugs from infesting your mattress and make it easier to spot any signs of an infestation.
- Seal cracks and crevices: Inspect and seal any cracks in your walls, around electrical outlets, and plumbing to eliminate potential hiding spots for bed bugs.
- Remove shoes before entering your home: Bed bugs can hitch a ride on your shoes, so it’s a good idea to remove your shoes before entering your home, especially if you’ve been in areas prone to bed bugs.
- Wash your bedding regularly: Wash your sheets, comforters, and pillowcases often in hot water to help reduce any bed bugs that may have been brought into your home.
- Inspect secondhand furniture: Avoid bringing used furniture or mattresses into your home, especially if they have been discarded by others. Always inspect secondhand items carefully for signs of bed bugs.
What to Do if You Have a Bed Bug Infestation
If you suspect you have a bed bug infestation, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent it from spreading. Bed bugs can be challenging to eradicate, and the earlier you address the problem, the easier it will be to manage. Here’s what to do if you have an infestation:
- Call a pest control professional: Bed bug infestations often require professional treatment. Pest control specialists can help identify the extent of the infestation and recommend the most effective treatment methods, including heat treatment or pesticide applications.
- Vacuum regularly: Regularly vacuuming your home, especially around bed frames, carpets, and upholstery, can help reduce the number of bed bugs. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately after use.
- Use heat treatment: Bed bugs are sensitive to high temperatures. Washing bedding in hot water and drying it on the hottest setting can kill bed bugs and their eggs.
- Discard infested items if necessary: If furniture or bedding is severely infested, it may need to be discarded to prevent further spread. Be sure to dispose of these items responsibly and mark them to prevent others from picking them up.
Health Department Resources in New Mexico
In New Mexico, the health department provides general information and guidance on how to deal with bed bugs, including tips for preventing infestations and alleviating the effects of bed bug bites.
However, the health department does not have the authority to enforce abatement, conduct inspections, or resolve landlord-tenant disputes related to bed bug issues. If you need professional help, the health department may provide resources and contacts for pest control services.
Bed bugs are a growing problem in many cities across New Mexico, and it’s essential for residents to take preventive measures to avoid infestations. By following simple guidelines such as using mattress covers, sealing cracks, and avoiding secondhand furniture, you can reduce the risk of bringing bed bugs into your home.
If you do find yourself dealing with an infestation, it’s important to act quickly and seek professional help to ensure the pests are fully eradicated.
