In case you haven’t noticed bed bugs have had a resurgence that has many itching and scratching.
Yet the fact is many are blissfully unaware of what awaits. But that doesn’t alter the fact that bed bugs are back and turning up in cities all across the country.
Now when they set up shop in your bed, they’ll patiently wait for you to hit the sack. Sensing the time is right, and that you are vulnerable, they’ll make their move. While you are sleeping they dine richly in the darkness. On you. Or your little ones. Or in a pinch the family dog.
Here's the typical progression of events from a bed bug's perspective. Right after they find their way to your mattress, or more likely your box springs, they’ll lie in wait. Hungrily awaiting your return. Sensing the moment is right, they’ll scurry out from hiding, tap your arm, leg or face. Once gorged they’ll trundle back into hiding to digest.
Disgusting isn't it? But why now? Seems more are experiencing bed bug bites first hand in part because increased international travel gives them more travel opportunities. That and limited effective and safe pesticides.
Which is why it should be clear that apartment managers, those running hotels, as well as home owners should see this as a growing menace. This is not to say we have to hunker down but we do need to accept the fact that we need to be more careful.
And guess what else? If you are not allergic and so that you don't wake up covered with itchy, red, bites, welts or a rash you'll never know you were victimized. Your arms, face or legs will not show the tell tale signs that a bed bug has paid you a visit. This may be a good thing or not.
Because for some these bites can get hyper itchy. Incredibly so. If you scratch them in your sleep they may get infected requiring medical care.
All of which is enough to keep you up nights. At least if you find being on some bug's menu repulsive. It's like starring in your very own horror movie. This is the stuff of nightmares that can traumatize you and scar you for life.
Some cities have been hit particularly hard by what was once thought to be a pest of the past. On the honor roll of most infested cities you’d find the likes of Philadelphia, Columbus, OH, and Cincinnati. As many as 14%, according to a poll taken to get an idea of how bad this is, indicated they had experienced a close encounter with these nasty little bloodsuckers.
Because of this property managers, home owners, and hotel operators need to recognize the problem and react accordingly. Travelers especially need to take care. If you like to shop garage sales you need to do bargain hunt with bed bugs in mind.
Don't minimize the scope of this problem. These critters don't discriminate. They'll bite you regardless if you are in the luxury suite or staying in the low rent district. Doesn’t matter.
Which is why we all need to seriously need to get up to speed about bed bugs. Here are tips you can try to try to stay bedbug free.
Travelers bedding down for the night in a hotel would be well advised to hang their clothes as far from the bed as possible.
If you go out to eat, don’t put your handbag on the floor. Keep it in your lap instead.
Little things like this can minimize the risk. And you may need them because bed bugs are true opportunists. They are eager to bite. Guess you could say they’re ready for you. Are you ready for them?
