Myths About Bed Bugs In El Centro

January 14, 2022 - Bed Bugs

bedbug signs on mattress

A common misconception about bed bugs is that they only happen in and around beds in dirty homes. This is a dangerous myth to believe because it can lead to people treating the wrong pest. In actuality, bed bugs can happen to anyone due to the way they infest homes.

Bed bugs can easily be picked up in schools, theaters, hospitals, hotels, motels, restaurants, and public transportation. They can also hitch a ride on second-hand furniture and appliances.

You can attempt to prevent an infestation by:

  • Keeping personal belongings off the ground in public places

  • Inspecting your belongings and kid’s backpacks before returning home

  • Avoiding used items, especially upholstered furniture and mattresses

  • Checking your hotel room before putting your belongings down

  • Using protective coverings for your mattress and box spring

  • Vacuuming your home regularly

Although bed bugs prefer sleeping areas because they provide easy access to blood meals, they do not infest the beds and mattresses exclusively. This pest can make its way throughout a home, hiding in small cracks and crevices.

This is only one myth about bed bugs. Many more are dangerous and can intensify infestations, making them last much longer than they should. All El Centro residents should know the truth about this pest and what to do if faced with an infestation.

Do Bed Bugs Spread Disease?

While bed bugs are external parasites, it is only a myth that they spread disease like other parasites such as fleas and ticks as there is no concrete evidence. However, bed bug infestations can lead to other health issues such as insomnia, secondary scratching infections, and anemia with severe enough cases.

People aren’t the only ones affected by bed bugs. Although this pest prefers skin without hair or fur, bed bugs can still bite pets, which will cause them distress and can lead to the same health concerns listed above.

Are Bed Bugs Too Small To See?

Many believe that bed bugs are too small to see because bites and other signs can seemingly pop out of nowhere. In truth, bed bugs are about the size and shape of an apple seed. They are not often seen because they are nocturnal, only coming out of their hiding places at night to feed.

Bites, which are small red bumps and usually appear in clusters around the face, neck, arms, and legs, are often the first sign of an infestation. However, there are several other signs of bed bugs you should be aware of:

  • Brown and rust color staining on your sheets, bedding, and pajamas

  • Shed skin

  • White eggs that are usually clustered

  • Nymphs, which look like adults, but much smaller and a brighter red

Can I Get Rid Of Bed Bugs On My Own?

When first faced with a bed bug infestation, you may think the best thing to do is treat the problem yourself, but this could not be further from the truth. It is challenging to get rid of bed bugs on your own as this pest needs to be treated at every life stage, not just adults. 

Removing every egg, nymph, and adult on your how is nearly impossible. It’s essential to act quickly when it comes to a bed bug infestation, so instead of wasting your time and money, contact Imperial County Pest Control at the first sign of a problem.

We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best possible service. This includes using safe and effective eco-friendly products and keeping you informed through every step of the process.

Give us a call today at Imperial County Pest Control to get started with our effective home pest control and commercial exterminator services.

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