A parasite is an organism that lives in or on another organism (its host) and takes its nutrients from the host, often to the detriment of the host. A good example of this would be a bedbug, which latches onto its host and feeds off their blood. An understanding of these tiny creatures is necessary to battle them effectively.
No one is safe from these wingless insects, they can be found in high-end 6 star hotels, buses, airplanes to places such as London, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Newcastle and other places in the UK.
Signs of Bedbugs
The initial indications of bedbugs are often marks on the skin, usually in an orderly pattern and commonly on parts exposed for long periods of time, such as around the neck if you sleep with a duvet drawn up around your shoulders. Also look out for tiny black spots that can be up to 2mm in size; these are usually found on pillows, mattresses and headboards and is actually the bug’s faecal matter containing their host’s blood. If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these bugs, they can grow up to 6mm long.
What do Bedbugs eat?
They nourish themselves from mammals such as humans, dogs, cats and rodents, eating every few days, primarily during the evening. When fertile they can lay up to five eggs per day and a maximum of two hundred throughout their life cycle (which is heavily influenced by temperature, sustenance availability and other external elements).
Breeding habits of Bedbugs
Bed bugs flourish due to their swift and plentiful reproduction. If it were possible to impede this process, we could manage their number and maybe eradicate them for good. Furthermore, the female will search out harbourage and produce eggs for 6-8 weeks after mating merely once.
How to get rid of Bedbugs?
- 1Avoidance! Averting bedbugs from invading your domicile in the first place. Scrutinize motel rooms, hostel beds for indications if you are away from home (see underneath).
- 2Launder your garments when you return from journeying abroad (+60 degrees).
- 3Examine travel bags, backpacks etc. Give intense consideration to the edges.
- 4Competent housekeeping in your property, frequently scrub, vacuum mattresses, beneath bed, bed frame, couches, chairs etc. If you recognize anything please pursue stages below.
- 5Hoover! Especially those that need special attention such as the mattress, couch, bedstead, rug, fissures, and seams.
- 6Launder all bedding and other objects that were subjected to +60°C (refrigerating or dry-cleaning are two alternative selections). Make sure you place the items in a bag before you wash them and do not put clean, dry items back into affected places after they've been processed.
- 7Investigate suitable DIY treatments if this is the path that you desire to pursue. They range extensively and can incorporate steam, warmth, chemicals.
- 8Apply a persistent insecticide or utilize an assorted selection of remedies on the entire property multiple times over a 3-4 week period. Make sure to adhere to product instructions and wear proper protective gear. It is absolutely critical that you take all necessary precautions when conducting this treatment and it is highly recommended to consult a professional if you have any doubts.
- 9Remain vigilant following application, inspecting the area regularly for further signs of infestation.