Bedbugs are one of the fastest growing pest control concerns. Infestations can swiftly grow into large scale infestations as they are prolific breeders, known for their ability to reproduce. Each nymphal stage needs one full meal of blood before it proceeds to next stage. Once fully grown it can endure starvation for one year at least, in some cases 36 months.
A bedbug infestation can be very difficult to treat, professional help is needed for this pest. Central Pest Control have all of the latest technology in dealing with any infestation including this difficult to treat pest. Central Pest Control have a five step treatment protocol designed to kill live nymphs and adults in the reproductive life cycle of a bedbug population.
Bedbugs have been a nuisance to humans since prehistoric times. They are not known to transmit diseases but they will bite and draw blood which could cause infection and for a business could damage your reputation as guests will become distressed if they find these insects in their rooms.
How to know if my bites are from Bedbugs?
Bites can be small red lumps causing irritation. People will react differently from minor irritation to severe allergic hypersensitivity. Bites on your skin doesn’t always mean it is a bedbug infestation you are dealing with.
- Smell – Bedbugs will produce an unpleasant odor.
- Skin Sheds – Look out for skin sheds.
- Blood Spots – Blood spots on bedding.
- Areas Bitten – These bites will be around the upper torso and other areas of the body in close contact to the bedding.
- Sight – Seeing live bedbugs will be a sign your bites are bedbugs. You may see them in the furniture or bedding.
Do I have fleas or Bedbugs?
Bedbugs and fleas are both parasites meaning they both draw blood. Bedbugs have some distinctive features that set them apart. Bedbugs are about the size of a matchhead. They have a beak like mouthpart that they use to pierce the skin and feed on blood. They have short golden hairs on their bodies which can give them a slightly striped appearance. Unlike fleas, bedbugs are nocturnal and will only feed at night.
How did Bedbugs get into my property?
Although bedbugs are thought to be linked to unclean and unsanitary environments this is not always the case as it is warmth and carbon dioxide they are attracted to.
Bedbugs will appear in multi occupancy buildings with rapid resident turnover and crowded areas like apartments, hostels, holiday camps, hospitals and transport. Even showing up in the most exclusive hotels and resorts.
Bedbugs are great hitchhikers, they may come into your home or business from any of the following to name a few:
- On your luggage from your holiday
- Goods bought online
- Second hand furniture, lockers, beds
Ask yourself where your suitcase has travelled and what could have been next to it.
How to prevent Bedbugs hitchhiking their way into your premises
- Store luggage on luggage racks when staying in hotels.
- Check the room for signs of bedbugs before unpacking your belongings. For more information visit our website page on bedbugs.
- Keep home decluttered and hoovered to avoid infestations brewing. Remember to empty your hoover bag to avoid bedbugs coming back into your home through the hoover.
Damage caused by Bedbugs
Bed bugs can pose a significant risk to businesses, particularly those in the hospitality industry, such as hotels, hostels, care homes, student accommodations and Airbnb accommodations. The risks associated with bed bugs include:
- Health Risk – Bedbugs will bite and each individual reacts differently to being bit. Bites will be itchy and when overly scratched can lead to an infection.
- Reputation – Bedbugs are associated with unclean and unsanitary conditions. If a business becomes known for having Bedbugs it can damage their reputation and may result in a loss of clients.
- Legal liability – Businesses are responsible for ensuring rooms are bed bug-free. If a business has been found to be the source of a bed bug infestation, it may be held legally responsible for any damages or losses incurred by affected parties, including guests, employees, or neighboring businesses.
- Financial loss – If bedbugs have infested a business premises the company may have no other choice but to close business temporarily to deal with the infestation causing financial loss to the company. Treating a bedbug infestation early can prevent this.
- Stress – Bedbugs can cause stress to guests and to families when trying to sleep in fear of being bitten.
- Costs – Costs in some cases may consist of an entire room, landing and adjacent rooms may need to be refurbished and all furniture fittings may need to be thrown out.
- Central Pest Control would always recommend a bedbug pest prevention program in the hospitality sector.
It is important to treat a bedbug problem early before it develops into a bigger problem as they breed fast. Left untreated, an infestation can rapidly grow, infesting multiple areas in your home, including furniture, carpets, and curtains. Contact one of our team today for a risk assessment site survey to identify the problem and we will test spray the area.
