| As bedbugs become increasingly resistant to chemical treatments the cost to remove them could run $500 - $1500 depending on the size of the home and lenght of infestation.
Once a common household pest Bedbugs all but disappeared in the 1950's. Some experts believe their vanishing act was due to the wide spread use of DDT.
The DDT ban in the early 70's, widespread International travel and public push back against pesticides created conditions for the dubious bedbugs to make a comeback. And come back the have! Accutech Pest Management treated about 300 Maryland bedbug infestations in 2010, up from just four in 2009.
Because there are no "knockout pesticides" available for home usage Ron believes the Maryland bedbug problem will expand. I can see bedbugs becoming a much bigger problem here. As bedbugs become increasingly resistant to chemical treatments the cost to remove them could run $500 - $1500 depending on the size of the home.
Experts say it is going to take a comprehensive public health campaign - public-service announcements, travel tips and perhaps even taxpayer-funded extermination programs to reduce the bedbug problem.
People can get bedbugs by visiting infested homes or hotels, where they hide in mattresses, pillows and curtains. The bugs are crafty hitchhikers that climb into clothing, luggage and bags.
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Although many people still associate bed bugs with unsanitary conditions, bed bugs have become a growing problem even in clean homes, hotels or other buildings. There has been some indirect evidence that bed bug problems may be on the rise because of increased tourism and changes in tactics for controlling cockroaches with the emphasis on using baits and less on using liquid insecticides.
Bed bugs adults are reddish-brown, oval, flattened insects about 3/16" long and up 1/8" wide. Engorged (blood-fed) adults are swollen and dull red. Though wingless, adult bed bugs do have small wing pads. The eyes are deeply pigmented and the sides of the collar-like pronotum curve slightly around the head. The nymphs (immatures) resemble the adult though they are smaller in size.
Where to inspect for bed bugs? Furniture, particularly bedroom furniture must be inspected carefully. When possible, dismantle the bed for easier inspection. Inspect the mattress and box spring thoroughly. Be sure to check the holes or slots where head and foot board sections attach. Check under and behind other pieces of furniture, such as chairs, couches, dressers, nightstands, etc. -
More bed bug inspection tips: Pull out dressers drawers, inspect them carefully and check the interior of the dresser before reinserting the drawers. Check the undersides of lamps, clocks, radio, phones and other objects that might be on nightstands. Pull back dust covers on the undersides of chairs and couches and check carefully around the legs and frame. -
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| Insect Quick Fact:
Find hidden bed bugs
Remove and inspect objects, such as pictures, mirrors, curtains, etc., that are hung or mounted on walls. Check obvious cracks and crevices along baseboards. Remove the covers on electrical outlets and switches and inspect the boxes for signs of bed bugs. Inspect torn or loose wallpaper and decorative borders. Check all clothing and other items stored in areas where bed bugs have been found. If you have traveled in the last few months, inspect your luggage as well as the entire closet/storage area (and its contents) where you store your luggage.
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