Bed bugs are the sort of pest that might not cross your mind unless you are travelling around the world, but rather than being a thing of the past bed bugs are actually increasing in the UK and becoming a real pest control problem.
While bed bugs were once a common pest problem in the UK, they had largely been eliminated from homes, but an increase in travel has seen a fairly rapid rise in reports of local infestations in Birmingham, Manchester, London, Bristol and across many parts of the UK.
How to spot a bed bug
Despite their name, you can actually find bed bugs pretty much anywhere. It is common to find bed bugs on mattresses, bedding and furniture but they can also be found in fittings and personal items, such as suitcases and children’s toys.
However, it is their habit of feeding on the blood of people as they sleep that has earned them the name ‘bed bugs’. Seeing the human body as a food source they will take blood as people sleep in bed, leaving small bite marks where they have fed.
As they can go up to 10 days without feeding, bed bugs will often not be found in the bed but in the surrounding area – which makes getting rid of them difficult.
The most obvious sign that you may have a bed bugs infestation is the appearance of small red insect bites on your body. These can be quite numerous and itchy.
In addition to bites, you may see spots of blood or brown spots on the bed.
Where do bedbugs come from?
Bed bugs are generally picked up when travelling, which is why the rise in travel has largely been blamed for the rise in bedbugs. Hotels and hostels are usually the places where people will pick up bedbugs then, unknowingly bring them home with them, either in their clothes or suitcase.
Although the risk extends to any public space where bedbugs may have become established, including public transport and even aeroplanes.
Insect Control – How to get rid of bedbugs
Once you have spotted the signs of a bedbug infestation the only sensible action is to seek help from a professional pest control service as they are so difficult to find and remove.
You will also have to wash bedding and clothes on a high heat – or freeze them to kill any bedbugs.
To minimise your chance of exposure, keep your sleeping area clean and tidy, while remembering to vacuum your mattresses reasonably regularly.
Always check your luggage on return from holiday and be careful when buying second-hand furniture.
If you experience a pest infestation at your home or office contact Pest Busters for free advice and a fast, reliable service.
Pest Busters (Birmingham)
Highfield Farm, Middle Lane, Kings Norton, Birmingham B38 0DX
0121 695 9076
www.pest-busters.co.uk
The report has also shown that only 7% of local authorities are still offering free of charge pest control services due to lack of resources and budget cuts, which does not assist residents in their time of need.
