Little, bloodsucking insects known as bed bugs can infest homes, hotels, and other sleeping areas. They can cause itching, allergic reactions, and psychological discomfort in their victims, and they are famously difficult to eradicate.
A recent study from the pest management business Orkin claims that Florida is among the states with the highest rates of bed bug infestations nationwide. A ranking of the top 50 US cities was determined by Orkin’s bed bug treatment count from December 2019 to November 2020. Florida is home to Miami (ranked No. 24), Tampa (ranked No. 35), and Orlando (ranked No. 44).
Why Florida?
The warm, muggy weather in Florida might be one of the things that attracts bed bugs to the state. Bed bugs may live for several months without food and prefer temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, they like concealed, dark spaces like cracks, crevices, mattresses, furniture, and baggage.
Florida’s status as a popular travel destination is another factor that could contribute to the state’s high rate of bed bug infections. Each year, millions of tourists go to Florida, where they may unintentionally carry bed bugs from elsewhere or come into contact with them from hotels, motels, or Airbnb rentals that have been infested. Bed bugs have the ability to travel to new areas by hitching a ride on clothes, purses, and other personal items.
How to Prevent and Control Bed Bugs
The best defense against bed bug infestations is constant vigilance and routine inspection of your sleeping spaces. Look for evidence of bed bugs on your linens, mattress, box spring, headboard, or furniture, such as live or dead bugs, eggs, shells, fecal marks, or bloodstains. For difficult-to-reach areas, you can also use a flashlight or a magnifying glass to look for bed bugs.
Do not freak out if you think you may have bed bugs. Make contact with a reputable pest control business that treats bed bugs. Avoid attempting self-medication with over-the-counter medications as they can not work or even be dangerous. Additionally, avoid moving your possessions into other rooms or locations since this could spread the infestation.
Use these advice to avoid taking bed bugs back with you from your trip:
- Before booking a hotel, motel, or Airbnb, check online reviews for any reports of bed bugs.
- When you arrive at your accommodation, inspect the room for signs of bed bugs, especially near the bed and furniture. If you find any evidence, ask for a different room or a refund.
- Keep your luggage off the floor and away from the bed. Use a luggage rack, a shelf, or a table to store your bags. You can also seal your bags in plastic bags or covers to prevent bed bugs from getting inside.
- When you return home, unpack your bags outside or in the garage. Wash and dry your clothes on the highest heat setting possible. Vacuum your bags and dispose of the vacuum bag or contents in a sealed plastic bag.
Conclusion
In Florida and throughout the nation, bed bugs are becoming an increasingly severe issue. For both locals and visitors, they might have negative effects on one’s health and finances. Bed bug infestations can be prevented by being vigilant, conducting inspections, and acting quickly. You may shield your family and yourself against these bothersome bugs by using the precautions listed above.
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