Some of the most popular spring break destinations are ranked high on the list of bed bug treatments. Experts offer advice on how to avoid bringing bed bugs home from spring vacation.
Top Spring Break Destinations for Bed BugsOrkin, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins Inc., announced the top 50 bed bug cities for 2011 in a recent press release. Several of the cities are the hottest spring break destinations. In 2011, Rollins saw a 33.6 percent increase in bed bug business in comparison to 2010.
The cities are ranked in order of the number of bed bug treatment Orkin did from January to December 2011. They are also ranked according to their shift in ranking compared to 2010.
The top ten cities on the list in order of ranking are Cincinnati; Chicago; Detroit; Denver; Los Angeles; Columbus, OH; Dallas/Fort Worth, TX; Washington, D.C.; New York; and Richmond/Petersburg, VA.
Two of the most popular spring break destinations found their way to the list. Miami/Fort Lauderdale, FL jumped in the rankings from 51st in 2010 to 24th in 2011. West Palm Beach/Ft. Pierce, FL was not on the 2010 list but landed at number 50 on the 2011 rankings. Another popular warm destination, Honolulu, HI, landed at 72 in 2010 but ranks at 17th in 2011.
Orkin entomologist and Technical Services Director Ron Harrison, Ph.D, stated, “The change in some cities' rankings show bed bugs continue to be a problem in most areas of the U.S.” He noted several of the top 50 cities have large, busy airports which could mean a correlation between bed bug activity and increased travel. Changes could also be attributed to the bed bug population increasing or greater public awareness.
Bed bugs multiply quickly so early detection is important as infestations can be tough to control. Dr. Harrison further warns, “Bed bugs can be found in other places than the bedroom.” He refers to the blood-suckers as great hitchhikers that tend to settle where people sleep but can also crawl into personal belongs to travel on planes and wind up at offices, stores, gyms and homes.
Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite
The Journal of the American Medical Association reported bed bugs carry over 30 different human pathogens. While there is no evidence they are able to transmit diseases, the little blood-suckers leave itchy welts that can swell or turn red.
Harrison advises sanitation is not a factor and hotels from one-star to five-star facilities should be inspected. The nocturnal bugs resemble an apple seed in color and size. They are reddish-brown or lightly colored. Places to check include picture frames, behind baseboards and electrical outlet plates as well as sheets, furniture and mattress seams.
Travelers are advised to think of the acronym S.L.E.E.P. to remember the action steps so bed bugs don't come home with them from spring break.
First, survey surfaces for infestation. Next, lift and look for hiding spots under the mattress, bed frame and furniture. Third, elevate luggage on a rack away from the wall and bed. Fourth, examine luggage while repacking and when returning home. Finally, place clothing from the luggage in the dryer at the highest setting upon returning home from a trip.
The SF Gate reports Technical Director and Research Entomologist at BedBug Central, Jeffrey White, said, “Bed bugs have proven to be a persistent and complicated pest to treat once they have infested a home.” He states there are simple and affordable precautions travelers can take to minimize their risk of exposure. Below are two videos from BedBug Central. The first shows how to inspect a mattress and the second discusses airplane travel and bed bugs.
What if the Bed Bugs Bite?
The North Dakota Department of Health, Division of Disease Control reports bed bugs feed on the blood of human and animal hosts. Some live in homes while others are in the wild. They have an oval shape that is flattened and they cannot fly. Bed bugs are around ¼ inch long and are found worldwide.
Bed bugs bite at night when the host is sleeping. The bites are painless as bed bugs feed and inject saliva into the skin. The sore resembles a mosquito bite. Over time, the bites could cause a mild to intense allergic reaction. Scratching can lead to a secondary infection. The sores can be treated with corticosteroids and antihistamines to minimize inflammation and allergic reactions.
Bed bugs hide in small crevices and can even be in boxes when moving. They survive for months without feeding so they can be present in a place that seemed clean or vacant. They spread as long as they are living with a host. While bed bugs are not deadly, they are certainly pests nobody wants to bring home from spring break.
If you would to read more information on out main site, please visit: Bed Bug Info
