This unseen pest is wreaking major havoc on homes across MS
Mississippi folks know that summer brings the bugs, but you may not have considered the threat of a more persistent (and very gross) infestation: bed bugs.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency classifies bed bugs similarly to head lice. Their bites can cause itching, sleep disruption, allergic reactions and significant stress, and are a common culprit in publicly shared spaces like hotels and public transportation.
The facts about bed bug infestation
A science-backed study conducted by Raid and the SC Johnson Center for Insect Science and Family Health warns, “Bed bugs tend to be more active in the summer months due to warmer temperatures and increased human travel,” and can hitchhike on various items like luggage, furniture or bedding. They can even travel between attached living spaces through cracks, electrical wiring and plumbing.
Now that we’re in the height of bed bug season, the risk of bringing home one of these little blood suckers is at its greatest, and Mississippi could be vulnerable for bed bug occurrences.
Even though bed bugs are often associated with unsanitary conditions, the bugs can be found in even the cleanest of spaces and Mississippi’s dense urban areas, busy hotels and multi-unit housing complexes make it particularly vulnerable for infestations.
The impact of bed bugs goes far beyond the ‘ick’ factor
Beyond the discomfort of their bites, the Mississippi State Department of Health warns that bed bugs can cause other kinds of distress:
Psychological distress: Anxiety occurs because of the persistent fear of being bitten and the stigma associated with having bed bugs
Disrupt sleep: Bed bugs are active and feed at night and this can lead to itching, insomnia and irritability.
Costly extermination bills: Treating an infestation often requires professional pest control services which can be very expensive.
Drop in property values: Properties with known infestations could experience decreased value due to the cost of extermination.
Loss in customers or business: Business, especially in the hospitality industry, can lose revenue if word leaks about infestation.
What are the signs of bed bugs and how do I get rid of them
The Mayo Clinic advises Mississippians to look out for the following:
Unexplained, itchy red welts on your skin, often in a line or zig-zag pattern
Small, dark red smears or spots, ingested blood, on bedding
A noticeable, unusual musty scent in the room
Pale yellow, translucent shells left behind
Tiny (about 1 mm), whitish, sticky eggs found in hidden spots.
Tiny black or brown dots, bed bug droppings
Small, reddish-brown, flat, oval-shaped insects
The Mississippi Department of Health inspects certain facilities, but vigilance at home is just as important.
Check mattress seams, bed frames and upholstered furniture for stains, odors or skins.
Launder bedding and any suspect clothing in hot water and dry on high heat.
Vacuum rooms, especially around beds and furniture, to remove stray bugs or eggs.
Inspect hotel rooms before unpacking, and keep luggage off the floor.
If you spot signs of bed bugs, consider professional pest control, quickly.
The thought of bed bugs is definitely not something we want to associate with summer. However, with summer fun in full swing, now may be a good time to stay vigilant for any unwanted critters, to avoid bringing home “America’s most unwanted travel souvenir.”
What summer critters are you battling right now? Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.
