Causes
Bed bugs
Bed bug infestations are increasing globally, particularly in urban areas. Several factors contribute to this rise, including more frequent travel, changes in pest control practices, and insecticide resistance. Bed bugs do not travel on humans but can hitch a ride on furniture, luggage, and clothing. They can move through walls, water pipes, and gutters, allowing them to spread across rooms and buildings.
Common Hiding Places
- Clothing and luggage
- Bedding and mattresses
- Box springs and headboards
- Furniture seams and cracks
- Under peeling paint and loose wallpaper
- Carpeting near baseboards
- Under light switch plates or electrical outlets
How Bed Bugs Spread
Bed bugs can move from one location to another by traveling on items such as clothing, luggage, furniture, and boxes. They can easily travel between floors and rooms in hotels or apartment buildings. Bed bugs are not a sign of uncleanliness; they only need a warm host and hiding places.
Risk Factors
You are at higher risk of encountering bed bugs if you frequent places with high turnover rates, such as:
- Apartment buildings
- Dorm rooms
- Homeless shelters
- Hotels and motels
- Cruise ships and trains
- Buses and refugee camps
Bed bugs generally live for three to nine months but can survive up to 16 months in colder temperatures.
