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 Bed bugs (Cimex lectularis) are well adapted to
living with humans and were common in the United States before
WWII. With the use of residual pesticides such as DDT their
occurrence was greatly reduced. Today, with increased world
travel and reduced use of harmful pesticides they are making a
come back.
Bed bugs are ‘”true” bugs that feed on the blood
of animals through a specialized mouth part. Adults are ¼ inch
long, flat and wingless. They are active mainly at night and
hide in cracks in or near beds during the daytime.
 Bed bugs are not known to carry any diseases.
They readily bite people and feed on human blood. Bites cause
areas of itching and swelling. Secondary infections may occur
from scratching the bites.
People usually don’t feel the bugs biting. The
presence of bed bugs can be determined by evidence of rust
colored spots on sheets, walls or mattresses. They emit a musty
smell when numerous which can be easily detected. Itchy, red
welts on waking are a sign bed bugs may be present. Sticky tape
placed along the base of the bed can trap them for positive
identification.
Female bed bugs lay about 500 eggs in their
lifetime. Under favorable conditions, they go from egg to adult
in about a month and can live for months without feeding. They
can move quickly and hitchhike from room to room on sheets,
luggage and clothing.
 If you suspect a bed bug infestation, inspect the
entire area, including the mattress, light sockets, picture
frames and cracks along baseboards near the bed for rust colored
spots.
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If evidence of an infestation is found
prepare the area for treatment by minimizing clutter,
washing the bedding and vacuuming thoroughly.
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When the area is clean, apply a pryrethroid
insecticide (found in any garden or pet store), targeting
the areas where the “rust” spots were found.
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Include hiding places such as mattress seams,
box springs and under lamps and end tables.
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A second or third application may be
necessary as the eggs might not be affected by the sprays
and vacuuming alone might not get them all.
In extreme infestations, fumigation might be
necessary, but only as a last resort.
Sleep tight, and don’t let the bed bugs bite!
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of the Month
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