Bed bugs are little bloodsucking insects that may infest homes, hotels, and other sleeping areas. They are famously difficult to get rid of and can cause itching, allergic responses, and psychological discomfort in their victims.
According to a new Terminix pest control research, three communities in New Mexico are among the top 50 most bed bug-infested in the United States. These include Albuquerque (#18), Santa Fe (#32), and Las Cruces (#48). The report is based on Terminix’s number of bed bug treatments completed between December 1, 2022, and November 30, 2023.
Read more: Vermont is Crawling With Bed Bugs; Three Cities Are Among the Worst Infested
Why Are Bed Bugs Increasing in Certain Cities?
Several reasons may lead to an increase in bed bug infestations in different cities. Some of these include:
- Enhanced travel and mobility: Bed bugs may hitchhike on luggage, clothing, and personal possessions, spreading from one location to another. Travelers may unwittingly introduce bed bugs into their homes or hotels from contaminated areas.
- A lack of knowledge and prevention: Many people may be unaware of how to recognize, prevent, or cure bed insect infestations. They may also be hesitant to report or seek assistance for bed bug infestations owing to stigma or fear of losing their home or reputation.
- Resistance to insecticides: Bed bugs have acquired resistance to some of the most common insecticides used to eliminate them. This makes them more difficult to eradicate, necessitating more intense and expensive therapies.
- Urbanization and population density: Bed bugs flourish in congested and cluttered situations, where they may find more hosts and hiding spots. Urban locations, particularly those with low-income or transitory populations, may provide excellent circumstances for bed bug infestations.
Prevention and Control Measures
Bed bug infestations can be prevented and managed by taking a few basic procedures, including:
- Inspect your sleeping space frequently for indicators of bed bugs, such as live or dead bugs, eggs, fecal marks, blood stains, or shed skin. Use a flashlight and a magnifying glass to inspect the mattress, box spring, bed frame, headboard, nightstand, couch, chair, and other furnishings.
- Avoid bringing bed bugs home from trips. Before checking into a hotel, examine the room for bed bugs. Keep your bags off the floor and away from the bed. When you get home, examine and vacuum your baggage, then wash and dry your clothing on high heat.
- Decluttering and closing gaps and crevices. Clutter offers hiding spots and breeding grounds for bedbugs. Seal any cracks or holes in the walls, flooring, or furniture that allow bed bugs to enter or escape.
- Launder and heat infected objects. High temperatures can destroy both bed bugs and their eggs. Wash and dry your bedding, clothes, and other items at the highest temperatures feasible. To treat non-washable materials, use a steamer, dryer, or heat chamber.
Also read: Pennsylvania is Crawling With Bed Bugs; Three Cities Are Among the Worst Infested
- Using mattress and box spring encasement. These are unique coverings that zip around your mattress and box spring, preventing bed bugs from entering or leaving. They can help guard your bed against future infestations.
- Using a professional pest control service. If you have a bed bug infestation, call a qualified and skilled pest treatment firm. They may evaluate your property, determine the scope and cause of the infestation, and provide the necessary remedies. Do not try to use over-the-counter insecticides, foggers, or explosives; they may be useless, dangerous, or illegal.
Bed bugs are a major and rising issue in many places, including New Mexico. You and your family may be protected against these troublesome pests by remaining watchful, knowledgeable, and proactive.
Final Words
Finally, the presence of bed bugs in some locations, such as Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces, emphasizes the critical need for education and prevention measures. Increased travel, a lack of information, pesticide resistance, and urbanization are all contributing factors to the problem. Vigilance, frequent inspections, and expert pest control services are all necessary for efficient prevention and management.