Bed bugs, small insects that feed solely on human blood, are making a major comeback in the U.S. after nearly being eradicated. Factors like stricter pesticide regulations and increased international travel have contributed to their resurgence.
Cities in Rhode Island, among others, are facing an increasing number of bed bug infestations, and residents are struggling with how to handle this pest.
Identifying Bed Bugs: What Do They Look Like?
Bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed, with flat, oval-shaped bodies and a reddish-brown color. Nymphs, or younger bed bugs, look like smaller versions of the adults. The eggs are tiny and white, making them difficult to spot without close inspection.
Do Bed Bugs Bite? Understanding the Risks
Yes, bed bugs do bite. These pests are nocturnal, meaning they hide during the day and become active at night, usually coming out to feed on human blood while their victims are asleep. They are most commonly found in areas close to a food source, such as:
Under sheets
Behind headboards
Behind outlet covers
Other undisturbed areas
Are Bed Bugs Dangerous? What You Need to Know
Bed bugs are not known to carry or transmit diseases to humans, but their bites can lead to itchy, red welts on the skin. Typically, these bites appear in straight lines or clusters. While they are not deadly, they can cause significant discomfort.
Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation: How to Spot Them
If you wake up with bites that weren’t there when you went to bed, you may have a bed bug infestation. Other common signs include:
Small spots of blood on your pillow or sheets, left behind from the bed bugs’ nighttime feedings.
Caste bed bug skins: Bed bugs shed their old, empty skins as they grow.
Small, white eggs: Bed bug eggs are extremely tiny and hard to see, but finding them may point to an infestation.
Why Am I Experiencing a Bed Bug Problem?
Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers. They can easily travel in your luggage, on your clothes, or even on secondhand furniture. Common places to encounter bed bugs include:
Cabs and buses
Airplanes
Motels and hotels
Thrift stores or secondhand shops
Bed bugs are not a sanitation issue; they can be found anywhere, from luxury hotels to low-budget motels. A bed bug infestation can happen regardless of the cleanliness of the environment.
Are Bed Bug Infestations Common?
Yes, unfortunately, bed bug infestations are becoming increasingly common across the United States and many other parts of the world. The spread of these pests is often tied to increased travel and the movement of goods and people.
How Long Does It Take to Get Rid of Bed Bugs?
The time it takes to completely eliminate a bed bug infestation depends on the treatment method. Multiple treatments may be required to ensure full eradication, as bed bugs can be tough to remove completely.
How to Effectively Get Rid of Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are not a do-it-yourself fix. Over-the-counter chemicals, if used improperly, can cause more harm to you and your family than they will to the bed bugs. If you discover a bed bug infestation in your home, it’s best to call a professional pest control service immediately.
Experts can evaluate the situation, recommend the most effective treatment, and help eliminate the infestation safely.
As bed bugs continue to impact Rhode Island and other areas, it’s essential to stay vigilant and address any signs of infestation promptly. Early detection and professional treatment are key to keeping your home free of these pesky invaders.
