Bed bugs are a global concern, with their resurgence causing alarm in numerous places. The problem extends beyond specific countries, affecting regions such as Asia, Europe, and North America.  In this article, our friends at Pacific Prime will provide an overview of this mini-crisis and what we can do about it.

A Brief History of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs were once a common pest worldwide, but the use of DDT and other effective insecticides in the mid-20th century greatly helped control them. As a result, bed bugs became a rare problem in the developed world, where they were largely forgotten by the public.

However, in recent years a resurgence of bed bugs is seen in many countries. The banning or restriction of certain insecticides, including DDT, due to their harmful effects had led to a decline in the availability of effective chemicals for bed bug control.

Increased international travel has also facilitated the spread of bed bugs. Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers and can easily infest luggage, clothing, and other personal belongings, allowing them to travel between countries with ease.

Over time, genetic mutations have also allowed bed bugs to survive exposure to certain chemicals. This resistance has limited the effectiveness of traditional pest control methods.

How Bad the Problem Is Now

The global bed bug resurgence has reached alarming levels, posing significant challenges for countries worldwide. Paris, for example, is facing a severe bed bug problem.

Asia is grappling with a bed bug crisis too, with places like Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Japan experiencing an infestation surge. These pests have infiltrated homes, hotels, and public spaces, causing distress and economic losses.

Even though bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases to humans and seldom cause severe medical complications, the physical, emotional and financial impacts of this nuisance cannot be ignored.

What to Do If You See Bed Bugs in Your Home

Before taking any action, carefully confirm that the insects are bed bugs. Avoid drastic measures like discarding all your belongings. Most items can be treated and saved, and hasty disposal can cause the bugs to spread to other homes. You should also:

• Use special bed bug covers (encasements) that prevent bed bugs from reaching you while you sleep. Keep the encasements on for at least a year, ensuring they are durable and tested for bed bug resistance.

• Regularly wash (in hot water) and heat-dry your bed sheets, blankets, bedspreads, and any clothing that comes in contact with the floor. Clean the laundry containers and hampers as well.

• Thoroughly vacuum various areas such as rugs, floors, upholstered furniture, bed frames, and cracks and crevices. After each use, seal the vacuum bag tightly in a plastic bag and dispose of it in an outside garbage bin.

• If you dispose of infested mattresses or furniture, make sure they are unusable to prevent others from picking them up.

• Engage a reputable and responsible pest control professional who follows an integrated pest management (IPM) approach for better results. IPM techniques can help minimize exposure to chemicals. If you must use pesticides, always follow the instructions provided or seek professional help.

Protect Your Wellbeing with Pacific Prime

Bed bugs are unlikely to cause exorbitant medical expenses, but plenty of health issues can. That’s why you need the right health coverage to ensure your wellbeing and financial stability.

With 20+ years of experience in insurance, Pacific Prime can help you find a suitable plan and give you impeccable support throughout your insurance journey.

Contact them for impartial advice or a FREE plan comparison today!