Bed Bugs had been pretty much eliminated from the United States until around fifteen years ago. 

What Caused The Resurgence Of Bed Bugs In The United States?

While the numbers had dwindled across the United States, Bed Bugs had remained commonplace worldwide. They were reintroduced to the North American continent due to the increase and ease of traveling abroad. Along with their eggs, they were brought back to the states on clothing, suitcases, and bedding.

How Bed Bugs Operate

Once present, they establish their numbers by using nocturnal activity to avoid detection and find regular meals. The blood of humans is their primary food source, but they are known to bite other warm-blooded animals such as household pets. Beyond being nocturnal, they are generally opposed to light; when it's encountered, they will retreat to their hiding spots. 

They use a beak-like structure to see through your skin and then inject anticoagulants (preventing blood from clotting) and pain-eliminating chemicals. This allows them to feed undetected while you sleep. Once engorged, they will retreat for up to five days, after which they will return to the host for another feeding. They can, however, survive months without eating.

Why Are Bed Bugs So Problematic?

They have brought an alarming rate of infection by drug-resistant bacteria. The MRSA infection is attributed to Staphylococcus bacteria, and the VRE infection from Enterococcus bacteria is associated with Bed Bugs' bites. Non-infectious bites can be just as troublesome. Typical skin reactions can include extreme redness and itchiness, but allergic reactions are common and can be more severe.

Not surprisingly, the psychological toll taken they bring is significant as well. Infestations are known to cause extreme anxiety and restlessness for those infected. Eighty percent of symptoms reported are consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder, including paranoia and depression.

Bed Bugs Are Formidable Foe

Females lay eggs daily, and it takes only one week for eggs to hatch. They will reach full maturity in as little as a month, shedding their skin up to five times as they grow larger. They are prolific in their reproduction but also elusive and resilient.

They do not form nests like other insects. Instead, they congregate in their favored hiding places, such as mattress crevices, headboards, light switch covers, and baseboards. Evidence of an infestation comes in bites, shed skins, and stains on the sheets caused by the brownish excrement of digested blood.

Efforts to eliminate Bed Bugs are complicated. Their ability to last such a long time without a meal, coupled with effective hiding habits and fast reproduction, make them a challenging opponent. If you find yourself dealing with these parasites, contact the professionals at Walter Salazar Pest Control. We have the experience and expertise to effectively, quickly, and safely eradicate these insect invaders.