The Bedbug Epidemic

Bed bugs are a growing concern in cities, with infestations increasing by 71% from 2000 to 2005. They are oval-shaped, under 1 cm (14 inch) in length and the colour of an apple seed. They enter condo buildings on people and their belongings, hiding in crevices and coming out at night. Most people never see them, and they spread quickly and travel between cities. Pest control contractors report treating bed bug infestations in condos and apartments.

Bed bugs can spread quickly in buildings without proper treatment, and can spread to 45 percent of suites in a high-rise building in 41 months. Effective treatments require the services of pest control professionals and must be undertaken at least twice about 14 days apart. Bed bug dogs can be used to detect bed bugs before residents become aware of a problem. Carbon dioxide freezing can be used on possessions and fabrics to kill bed bugs. Eliminating a bed bug infestation is a community effort best coordinated by condo building management. Tips on avoiding bed bugs include never unpacking luggage on a bed, placing everything in sealed plastic bags and in the dryer on high heat for at least 20 minutes, eliminating clutter, and inspecting home for signs of bed bugs.