Pest Control - Arthropod Control - Bed Bugs
Bed Bugs (Heteroptera: Cimicidae)
These are small, wingless, and photophobic insects. Bed bugs are one of the most significant problems of the modern world. Bed bug control is difficult, as they spread easily, resulting in a dramatic increase in the number of infestation cases. In order to control bed bugs effectively and ensure that the bed bug infestation is eliminated quickly and immediately, thorough cleaning must be carried out after all possible areas of bed bug activity have first been identified. This is followed by the use of approved selective products for this purpose, which must be applied by properly trained technical staff.
Biology
The bed bug is an obligate ectoparasite with more than 90 identified species. Bed bugs feed on the blood of mammals. To date, no disease has been recorded as being transmitted through bed bug bites. However, the main concern is the irritation and discomfort caused by their bites. Bed bug bites do not cause pain. The discomfort is caused by itching, which is the result of the body’s reaction after the bite. Multiple bites and contact with bed bugs can also lead to an itchy rash, as well as skin inflammation.
In the past, bed bugs were found only in army camp dormitories. With the increase in travel in recent years, bed bugs have migrated through luggage. Today, there is an outbreak of bed bug presence in hotel rooms, ship cabins, etc. A characteristic fact is that there is an increase in bed bug cases in major travel destinations.
The species that concern us are:
Cimex lectularius:
This is the species that parasitizes humans. The adult lives up to 18 months. They are resistant to starvation and can survive without food for up to 5 months. At temperatures above 40oC they die, and at temperatures below 13oC they become inactive.
They parasitize humans, rodents, birds, and bats.
A bed bug bite usually has the form of a “line of bites”, which is often noticed much later, usually in the morning, from the moment it occurs. The bite lasts up to 15 minutes, while it is not perceived by humans, since its saliva contains a characteristic “anesthetic” substance. They have the ability to enter very small cracks. They are usually found under carpets, in bed frames, inside or in mattress seams, in wardrobes, rugs, or even under sofa cushions. Their presence is not related to hygiene conditions; therefore, bed bugs can be found even in luxury spaces.
Treatment
The signs of a bed bug infestation are:
• Bites in the form of a “line of bites”
• Skin irritation
• Blood stains on the mattress or bedding
• Presence of insects or exuviae on the bed frame
The inspection and control of the bed bug population is carried out through applications of residual sprays at points that are potential bed bug shelters, such as beds, mattress seams, and the entire facility where the problem exists, because eggs can be everywhere.
Also, control can be carried out using a cold fogger with the ULV (Ultra-Low Volume) method. Additionally, fumigant insecticide products, aerosols, or spraying with a low-pressure sprayer may be used.
The fogging method for the treatment of bed bugs, is based on the polymerization of the insecticide solution used into very small-diameter droplets (20-80μm), with the aim of directly controlling adult insects and larvae located near the surfaces and details of furniture. The insecticide passes through with great force and, as a mist, penetrates all potential points with insect populations. Beyond the immediate knockdown of the population, due to the residual action of the insecticide, a protective film is created on all surfaces of the space, with the aim of killing all adults that pass over them while searching for food.
In cases with large bed bug populations, a repeat control application may be required after 8-10 days.
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