Why the need?
A recent bed bug infestation in Paris has garnered a lot of attention. This tiny pest has rapidly spread within and from domestic settings to all public places including cinema theatres, metro trains, hotels, restaurants, and even hospitals. Hence, this infestation is soon turning out to be a pressing concern in France and other neighbouring European countries.
What do we know about bed bugs?
Bed bugs are obligate blood feeders or hematophages belonging to the family Cimicidae consisting of two species: Cimex lectularius (common bed bug), and Cimex hemipterus (tropical bed bug).
After the bed bug feeds on the host’s blood, it can typically result in skin irritation, hives, or itchiness. In rare cases, bed bug bites can cause severe allergic reactions which may require medical attention. Although bed bugs have never been reported as a vector for any infectious diseases, they cause considerable nuisance and can significantly impact tourism and various industries financially.
Bed bugs lack wings, but their hitchhiking ability enables them to easily travel from one place to another. Interestingly, unlike other pests, bed bugs aren’t the result of dirty household environments or poor hygiene practices and hence aren’t limited to lower-income communities.
Unlike mosquitos and other insects, bed bugs are difficult to eradicate due to their;
- specific hiding habits,
- slower reproduction,
- resistance to insecticides,
- and the ability to survive without feeding for long periods of time.
How to quickly eradicate the bed bug infestation?
The use of pesticides is widely acknowledged and recommended as an effective strategy for eradicating bed bugs. Various pesticide formulations such as liquids, sprays, and aerosols claiming to kill bed bugs, are readily available in the market. However, product efficacy depends upon label instructions like contact time and proper application.
Which EPA-registered pesticides are widely used for bed bug control?
- Pyrethrins,
- Pyrethroids
- Desiccants,
- Biochemicals,
- Pyrroles,
- Neonicotinoids
- Insect growth regulators
When an insecticide is considered for the use of bed bug eradication, it is highly recommended to carefully read the product usage instructions or seek assistance from certified pest control professionals.
Click here to learn – Bed Bug Testing Methods performed at MIS
How can I prevent bed bug infestation?
- Keep your living spaces tidy, clean, and clutter-free to reduce hiding spots for bed bugs.
- If you suspect a bed bug infestation, seek professional pest control services instead of attempting DIY treatments, which may exacerbate the problem.
- Carefully inspect second-hand furniture, and other items for signs of bed bugs, as they could be infested.
- Inspect hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs before unpacking. Wash your clothes and belongings in hot water after returning from a trip.
- Vacuum your home frequently, paying close attention to seams, folds, and crevices in mattresses, furniture, and carpets.
- If you suspect a bed bug infestation, seek professional pest control services instead of attempting DIY treatments, which may exacerbate the problem.
- Be vigilant and promptly address any signs of a bed bug infestation to prevent it from spreading.
Why trust MIS with Bed bug product Testing?
At MIS, we assist companies/ clients in evaluating the effectiveness of their products designed to prevent and control bed bug infestations.
In an effort to help clients with the development of high-performance bed bug control products, we have implemented a robust system that tests for quality and precision.
Our testing services are undertaken by a highly experienced team of Entomologists who leave no stone unturned to ensure that the clients have the best experience with us.
Contact us today for your entomology testing needs!
