What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs are small wingless insects that feed solely upon the blood of warm-blooded animals. They are a parasite that have existed since ancient times. There are at least 92 known species of bed bugs found throughout the world. The most common species is the Cimex lectularius , which is best adapted to human environments.
What do bed bugs look like?
Adult bedbugs are reddish brown, flattened, oval, and wingless, with microscopic hairs that give them a banded appearance. They grow to 4 to 5 mm (one-eighth to three-sixteenths of an inch) in length.
Bed bug eggs are tiny, whitish, and hard to see without magnification, as individual eggs are about the size of a dust spec. When first laid, the eggs are sticky, causing them to adhere to substrates. Newly hatched bed bug nymphs are translucent and lighter in color and continue to become browner and molt as they reach maturity. The nymphs are no bigger than a pinhead
What are the signs and symptoms of a bed bug infestation?
One of the easiest ways to identify a bed bug infestation is by the tell-tale bite marks on the face, neck, arms, hands, or any other body parts while sleeping. However, these bite marks may take as long as 14 days to develop in some people so it is important to look for other clues when determining if bed bugs have infested an area. These signs include: * the bed bugs’ exoskeletons after molting, * bed bugs in the fold of mattresses and sheets, * rusty–colored blood spots due to their blood-filled fecal material that they excrete on the mattress or nearby furniture, and * a sweet musty odor.
How do I get rid of bed bugs?
While most Pest Control Companies have to come back after the initial treatment Terma Guard does one treatment that will give you total Control. Bed bug bites usually do not pose a serious medical threat. The best way to treat a bite is to avoid scratching the area and apply antiseptic creams or lotions and take an antihistamine. Bed bug infestations are commonly treated by insecticide spraying. If you suspect that you have an infestation, contact your landlord or professional pest control company that is experienced with treating bed bugs. The best way to prevent bed bugs is regular inspection for the signs of an infestation.