How Come Bed Bugs Bite?
The first question you might ask is, “How come bed bugs bite?” The short answer is that they feed on the blood of humans. These pests attach themselves to the human skin and pierce it with their sharp proboscis. The process usually takes about 10 minutes and results in the bugs becoming engorged with blood. The bites may be painful and cause scarring, but a few individuals don’t even react to the bugs’ bites.
Bedbug infestations are becoming increasingly common in developed countries. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every five American adults has been a victim of a bed bug infestation. Infected homes often have more filth and clutter, which is perfect for hiding places for these pests.
Bedbugs can spread throughout a room very quickly. They can come into your home via rented furniture, used clothing, and luggage. Infested hotel rooms and public transportation are also a source of infestation. If you are traveling, make sure you check your hotel room thoroughly before sleeping. You should look for any blood spots or other signs of a bedbug infestation. A small flashlight may help you with this inspection.
If you do notice a bedbug infestation, you should call a professional exterminator to help you get rid of it. However, prevention is still key in keeping these pests out of your home. If you find an infested item, discard it immediately in a plastic bag. Be sure to label it. Also, if you plan to buy used furniture, check it for bedbugs before you buy it.