Pest Videos

Transcript

Bed bugs are one of the most prevalent and elusive pests in the U.S. and have been found in all 50 states. Because these pests are so good at hiding, they are rarely seen. For that reason, their bites are actually the most commonly reported sign of an infestation. 

Bed bug bites are typically painless and often occur while people sleep. But remember, bed bugs aren't only found in beds. They can infest anywhere humans congregate. including hospitals, schools, and movie theaters. While not all people react to bed bug bites, those that do can sometimes have a reaction within a few hours or a delayed reaction of up to two weeks. Bed bug bites have similar characteristics to flea and spider bites, making proper identification paramount to preventing an infestation. Unlike flea and spider bites, bed bug bites are usually large, raised, itchy welts that appear in a line or zigzag pattern. 

They are typically found on areas of the body that are exposed while sleeping, including the face, neck, hands, legs, or arms, and may take upwards of two weeks to fully heal. 

Bed bugs are great hitchhikers and are often brought home while traveling. To prevent these unwanted guests from returning with you, thoroughly inspect the entire hotel room for evidence of bed bugs, including behind the headboard, under lamps, and inside dressers, drawers, sofas, and chairs. Thoroughly inspect the bedding, pulling back sheets and checking the mattress seams, particularly at the corners or telltale stains or spots. After returning home from a vacation, vacuum and properly inspect suitcases outside. Do not bring the suitcase into your home until it has been inspected. 

Contact a licensed pest control professional if an infestation is suspected. If you or a loved one experiences an allergic reaction to a bite, seek medical attention immediately.