Category Archives: Canada Bed Bugs

Facebook Twitter Google+

 

The United States is currently experiencing a nightmarish epidemic of disgusting blood sucking parasites, and no, I am not talking about our politicians. There is a full blown bed bug epidemic happening all across America and it just seems to get worse with each passing year. For cities such as New York and Philadelphia which are at the epicenter of the outbreak, bed bugs have become an important political issue. Once bed bugs become entrenched in an area, virtually everyone is thinking about them. Bed bugs will not kill you, but they can drive you insane. Anyone that has ever had big, red welts all over their bodies from bed bug bites knows how terribly frustrating bed bugs can be. They can be incredibly difficult to get rid of. So why am I talking about bed bugs when there are hundreds of other important economic issues to talk about right now? Well, this is just another example of how our country seems to be cursed. Even the simplest things seem to become major problems for us these days. The reality is that there were almost no bed bugs inside the U.S. between the end of World War II and the 1990s. But today the number of bed bugs is absolutely exploding. I remember when I was young my mother would tell me to sleep tight and dont let the bed bugs bite, but I didnt even know what bed bugs were because I had never seen any. But today, CBS News says that more than 250 million dollars a year (and rising) is spent fighting bed bugs.

Things have gotten so bad that a National Bed Bug Summit was held earlier this year in Washington D.C.

Will we soon have a war on bed bugs?

I can just see it now: You are either with us or you are with the bed bugs.

So exactly what are bed bugs?

Well, basically bed bugs are small, brown, flat insects that love to suck the blood of animals and humans. They are commonly found in hospitals, businesses, homes, sofas, mattresses, buses, subways, trains, airplanes, classrooms, retail stores, movie theaters and especially in hotels.

As mentioned above, you will not die from bed bug bites. But many people have been driven absolutely crazy from constant bed bug bites for weeks or months on end.

One of the worst things about a bed bug infestation is all of the itching that bed bug bites cause. It can get to a point where it can be absolutely debilitating.

Some people become so traumatized by the fear of having bed bugs crawl all over them and bite them all night that they actually become afraid to go to sleep. A really bad bed bug infestation can cause panic attacks and even depression.

Right now there are large numbers of New Yorkers that are absolutely obsessed with bed bugs. The bed bug infestation in the city just seems to get worse and worse. The following is a quote from a local NBC news station in New York.

New statistics from the citys Department of Housing, Preservation and Development reveal an epidemic: Manhattanites have been complaining about bed bugs at six times the rate they did in 2005. On Staten Island, the number of complaints has soared 32 times higher than it was five years ago.

Just because you have bed bugs does not mean that you are dirty or unsanitary. The truth is that some of the finest hotels in the country have bed bugs.

According to The New York Post, bed bugs have even infested the Metropolitan Opera House, the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, the Empire State Building and the United Nations.

I once experienced a problem with bed bugs myself. Back when I was much younger and barely scraping by financially, I figured I would save a few bucks by buying a used mattress.

That was a huge mistake.

For weeks I would wake up with huge red bites all over my legs.

Never, ever again will I buy a used mattress.

Once bed bugs arrive in your home, they can be almost impossible to get rid of without professional help.

Throwing out one piece of furniture or covering your mattress in plastic might help a little bit but it will not solve the problem.

Some adult bed bugs can live for up to 12 months without feeding at all.

Just when you think they are gone they can come out and start feasting again.

Also, bed bugs are great at multiplying. Female bed bugs can lay up to 5 eggs in a single day and can lay up to 500 eggs during a lifetime.

Perhaps your area of the country does not have a problem with bed bugs yet, but this epidemic is spreading. Just check out the CBS News video report posted below.

Perhaps you saw in the news recently that some scientists have found that bed bugs are now carrying a superbug known as MRSA.

Scientists in Vancouver, Canada say that for the first time ever they have found bed bugs that have methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The following is a quote from a recent CTV article about this discovery.

Researchers discovered that a sample of the blood-sucking insects taken from three patients who live in Vancouvers gritty Downtown Eastside were carrying two types of drug-resistant bacteria.

Co-investigator Dr. Marc Romney, a medical microbiologist at nearby St. Pauls Hospital, said five bedbugs plucked from the patients or their belongings were carrying MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) or VRE (vancomycin-resistant enterococci). Dubbed superbugs, the bacteria are resistant to many standard antibiotics.

The good news is that these scientists do not have any evidence that bed bugs are spreading MRSA to humans.

Bed bugs are able to be infected by at least 28 different human pathogens, but at least to this point they are not very effective at spreading them.

Let us hope that does not change.

It turns out that MRSA has also been found in our supermarket meat.

For the first time in the United States, scientists have found antibiotic-resistant MRSA in supermarket meat.

According to Business Insider, scientists at Wayne State University tested 289 raw meat samples from 30 Detroit grocery stores. Six of the samples were infected with the potentially deadly bacteria, including three chicken, two beef and one turkey.

Yuck!

MRSA is not something you want to mess around with.

This is yet another example of how unsafe our food is becoming.

We like to think of ourselves as so advanced, but we cant even protect ourselves from annoying little bed bugs and we cant even keep very serious pathogens out of our food supply.

If you stop and think about all of the gross things in our society it can really stress you out. For example, the next time you use a soda fountain at a fast food restaurant there is a good chance that you may encounter fecal contamination. Just check out the following quote from Organic Health.

According to a study published in the January issue of the International Journal of Food Microbiology, nearly half of the 90 beverages from soda fountain machines in one area in Virginia tested positive for coliform bacteria which could indicate possible fecal contamination.

But getting back to bed bugs, for those dealing with an infestation the number one thing they want to know is what to do about it.

Well, there was one very effective chemical known as Propoxur, but it has been banned by the EPA. It turns out that Propoxur is a known human carcinogen and is very dangerous to children.

Some are urging the EPA to reconsider this ban, but so far the EPA has been standing firm.

Meanwhile, the bed bugs continue to multiply and terrorize more Americans.

On one bed bug forum, one woman identified as avenae shared a particularly brutal bed bug horror story.

It all started in April, woke up one morning with a red welt on my leg. Never really thought much of it. Then it kept happening, so I thought I had fleas, treated my animals, checked the house for them. Never saw a single flea. Also no one else in my home was being affected. Then I thought maybe I was having an allergic reaction to a new soap I had bought so I stopped using that and nothing changed. Kept realizing I was waking up in the middle of the night scratching my body parts almost raw. The itch was so intense it felt like a million fire ants biting me all over. So I start researching, read up on bed bugs and searched my entire home.nothing. But I seem to be having a sever reaction to the bites.

Mind you I hadnt traveled, had any visitors, nothing that would have brought these nasty little creatures into my home.

Ever night I wake up, every morning new red welts all over me. One night I thought Id wear long pants and sock and a long sleeve shirt, only to wake up with bites all over my neck and face! STILL could not find a single bug. It got to the point were I was crying myself to sleep at night and taking sleeping pills just to be able to sleep. Didnt want to start sleeping on the couch out of fear of them following me out.

Do you have a similar bed bug horror story?

If so, we would love to hear about it. Please feel free to share your thoughts about bed bugs below.

***UPDATE***

A reader named Emily left the following comment that I think we all should consider the next time we travel.

I use to work as a Hotel Manager. Trust me when I say, all hotels are infested with bed bugs. It was terrible fighting with the corp. owners of the property; they only weighed your safety against profits and profits always won! We did try to kill the bugs, but nothing really is effective so we rented out infective rooms and if guest complained, we would offer them a discount on the room. It finally got to the point I could not look people in the face so I left. It goes with out saying; I would never stay in a hotel room, period! What can you do if you must travel, I dont know! It is a fact of life that we must expose our selves to many nasty parasites in the environment and most of the time we survive, but nature is coming up with much more deadly threats all the time and it is no longer an option to be exposed. We need to wake up to these threats.

 

Facebook Twitter Google+

Read more:
Bed Bugs - The Economic Collapse

Are you looking for a safe, easy and cheap way to help get rid of bed bugs? Diatomaceous Earth is your solution!

DE is nontoxic, safe to use and much cheaper than other bed bug alternatives!

What is Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous Earth is a naturally occurring mineral composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, tiny micro-organisms that lived in large bodies of water. This clay is mined and crumbled into a fine powder which can be used for many purposes including the removal of bed bugs.

How Does Diatomaceous Earth Kill Bed Bugs?

Diatomaceous Earth is composed of fossilized microscopic diatoms which are very sharp to the insects outer body. When parasites and insects such as bed bugs come in contact with the DE it lacerates their exoskeletons and the powder of the DE then absorbs all of their bodily fluids, causing them to dehydrate and die!

How to Use Diatomaceous Earth for Bed Bugs

Apply a thin layer of Red Lake Earth Diatomaceous Earth to the infested area. Leave the dust on for a few days then simply vacuum or sweep up. Note: the amount of time that it takes the diatomaceous earth to kill the bed bugs depends on the extent of the infestation. Multiple applications may be required for a severe infestation.

PLEASE NOTE:

Be sure to place the DE in cracks, crevices, and areas that the substance will not be disturbed, as you do not want to place it in an area where it may be turned up and result in inhalation of the product. It is important that when you are applying the dust you use a dust mask or respirator.

Image by cuttlefish

Visit link:
How to Kill Bed Bugs with Diatomaceous Earth

Dear vbbb,

Actually, this is kinda-sorta like project work. You're assigned to a task, in this case getting rid of bed bugs, and I don't much care, within reason, how YOU accomplich this as long as no one or their property gets hurt.

We don't want to see you on tonights tv news being interviewed on how you were getting rid of bed bugs in your apartment whilst a bollowing cloud of dark smoke continues to rise from what used to be the building in the background.

Now, what YOU do is fine for you however, where we an issue is advising the world, ok just this forum, that singel strength, double strength, triple strength or a zillion strength vinegar is going to kill their bed bugs and be the miracle cure nervanna that the world's bed bug victims have been seeking since bfore recorded history, yet you found it in vinegar.

As per your anectodotal information above you've applied yet another "contact killer". This is NOT the miracle cure for bed bug problems. We already have a long list of items that will result in the mortality of bed bugs when directly applied (i.e. contact killers).

Now, when your magic vinegar, or any other super duper bed bug product, can be:

> applied to a pourous potential bed bug harborage surface> allowed to dry leaving just a residual of the item applied> continue to kill bed bugs that are exposed to the dried residual treated surface> and do so in a similar manner and deliver the effective results as ddt, dursban, diazinon, bendiocarb and other such insecticide products did back in their "hey day"

Then, and only then, should you be shouting from the bed bug world mountain top that you have the next bed bug "silver bullet".

The simple truth is you don't and it's not.

What you have is an interesting story about killing bed bugs before your very eyes with vinegar, ok double strength vinegar but vinegar nonetheless.

We appreciate you enthusiasm and willingness to share your success story however, we have concerns that extend beyond the boudries of your apartment. What of the person(s) who reads this and mistakenly think that all they need do is apply vinegar to solve or prevent their bed bug problem?

Vinegar is a contact only killer. So is alcohol, so is certain dishwashing liquid. And, guess what, some of these other contact killers won't have your entire house smelling fresh as a summer's eve or as if we just walked into a huge d-bag either.

Additionally, as DC also pointed out above, there is more to resolving bed bug infestations than simply killing those that are there "right now". We also need to find the source of the infestation and continued exposure thereof such that we can attain a long term sustainable cure to our bed bug situation.

Note that you were correct in implementing the tape thing as this could serve to block bed bugs from emerging or traveling through from another infested location. In some situations where the LL is a dexter and won't adopt a building wide viable program the only thing a resident can do is protect his/her own home.

And, this brings up another issue you mentioned above; how the Ll deals with the residents during a bed bug situation or crisis. We need to realize that the bed bugs are now property of the LL. This is so because at times after a period of failed efforts to eliminate the bed bugs we have seen where the resiodents simply leave the building. Guess who's left with the bed bugs then; yup, the LL the bed bugs are now his.

If vinegar works well for you and you really like that smell and possible staining/discoloration that may result then, good for you.

However, I think it's fair to say that the bed bug situation and eventual resolution is larger than the contents of what may be found within your double strength vinegar bottle.

As for me, I'll take a salad with balsamic with my steak tonight thank you.

Hope this helps ! paul b.

See the original post here:
Double strength cleaning vinegar to kill bed bugs? Got ...

Bed bugs come in different varieties but are basically parasitic insects that are active at night time. Spread by crawling, they live in linen, clothing, and cracks in furniture.

What Are Bed Bugs

Part of the cimicid family, bed bugs are tiny bugs that feed on bats and other animals and human blood. There are different types and species, including barn swallow, Mexican chicken, and tropical bugs. The Mexican chicken bug, for example, feeds on fowl and birds and is usually found on farms. The tropical variety feeds on human blood and bats and is found in regions with temperate as well as tropical climate. A total of 92 different species have been identified.

Where Can Be Found

They can be found in sofas and other upholstered furniture, textiles, beds and bed frames, box springs, mattress covers, mattresses, etc. Other areas that can be infested include wallpaper cracks, dressers, carpet edges, and curtains. Buildings that are at risk of infestation include buses, trains, and other transportation vehicles, shelters, laundries, office buildings, theaters, and other high-traffic areas. About 2/3 of bed bugs, however, are concentrated in the bed area.

Bites and Signs

Common signs of bug bites include itching, swelling, and redness. They can be mistaken for skin problems, rash, and mosquito and flea bites. Treatment is usually not required. Some patients develop bacterial infections and are prescribed antibiotics. If allergic reaction occurs, doctors usually prescribe antihistamines or topical steroids. Some people use natural and home remedies such as water and soda paste, oatmeal baths, tea tree essential oil, patchouli oil, and cold compresses.

How to Eliminate Them

There are different ways and products to kill insects, including diatomaceous earth, neem oil, and thyme oil. Diatomaceous earth, for example, contains fossils of diatoms, which are miniature aquatic species. There are numerous applications in farming, skin care, food manufacturing, water filtering, etc. Diatomaceous earth is also used to kill parasites, insects, and viruses and to reduce the harmful effect of free radicals. Neem oil is also used to get rid of bed bugs in commercial settings and homes. Azadirachtin, the main ingredient of neem oil, repels more than 200 insect species and is low in toxicity. Washing, fabrics, upholstery, and other surfaces also help eliminate bed bugs. You may add essential oils for better results. Lemon oil, for example, is known to repel insects, including bed bugs. It is best to contact a professional service company, however. They have experience in treating infested areas and use professional products and solutions. Some companies use professional insecticides while others use natural or organic products. Professional insecticides are more effective in treating infested areas. If you choose this option, ask whether the products they use are safe to apply on upholstery, fabrics, and mattresses, especially if you have small children, pets, or known allergies.

It is a good idea to inspect framed pictures, bed frames, fabrics, and soft furnishings on a regular basis. Check for eggs, dead bedbugs, blood stains, and insects to avoid infestation. If you are a frequent traveler, you may want to keep your suitcases away from furniture and your bed area. Put your clothes in the drier for 20 30 minutes when returning from a trip or holiday.

Bed Bugs in Canada, Cases and Infested Areas

The most heavily infested areas in Canada include Ottawa, Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Toronto. Other cities that have bed bug problems include Calgary, Scarborough, Sudbury, Halifax, Edmonton, and St. Johns. The majority of cities with bug problems are located in Ontario (14 in total).

In fact, there is a bed bug registry that allows users to browse for sites with reported cases. Sites include both residential homes and commercial properties. Renters and travelers are welcome to report areas with cases and bug infestations, including libraries, movie theatres, hospitals, dormitories, hotels, apartments, and houses. Users, on the other hand, are free to browse by city and state, street address, and hotel name. Information is available for different cities in Canada, including Toronto, Vancouver, Saskatoon, Regina, and others. The registry also features resources, city maps, alerts, and other useful information.

View original post here:
Bed Bugs in Canada Bed Bugs Info

Bed bugs are a common but serious issue for homeowners. These small, brown insects cannot jump or fly. Knowing the signs of bed bugs is the first step in finding and removing these pests.

Bed bugs usually stay close to the feeding areas so look for bed bugs in the areas where they congregate including along mattress seams, in the frames of beds or the headboards, behind baseboards and under carpet edges. Bed bugs can also hide behind pictures, door and window casings, loose wallpaper and any cracks.

View How to do a Bed Bug Room Inspection video.

Infestations tend to happen quickly and with little warning, so early signs of bed bugs often point to future problems. The insects stay hidden during the day and come out to feed at night. As a result, residents may miss early bed bug problems until pest populations are already hard to manage.

Bed bugs can hide just about anywhere; this is what can makedetecting bed bugs can be so difficult. Typical hiding places are mattress seams, behind pictures, box springs, in curtains, behind headboards, in sofas, behind baseboards, bed frames, along carpet edges and night stands.

Bed bugs are not just in beds although they usually hide within 3 to 6 feet of their feeding area.

You should regularly inspect all sheets and pillowcases for small brown blood stains (fecal spots) and inspect the seams and folds of mattresses for live insects and bloodstains.

Bed bugs usually stay close to the feeding areas so look in the areas where they congregate including along mattress seams, in the frames of beds or the headboards, behind baseboards and under carpet edges.

Bed bugs can also hide behind pictures, door and window casings, loose wallpaper and any cracks.Residents should inspect bedding, mattresses, cushions, and furniture after finding early signs of bed bugs.

Bed bugs typically hide during in the daytime, so it can often be very difficult to spot them. If you dont see the actual bed bugs look for tiny, rust-coloured stains that they leave behind on mattress tags and seams, ceilings, under seat cushions and behind headboards.

Keep an eye out for potential hiding places, such as buckling wallpaper or carpet, and conditions that can attract bed bugs like excessive heat or moisture.

Some additional symptoms of bed bug infestations include:

Schedule a Bed Bug Inspection

Want to learn more about bed bugs? Click one of the links below:

Visit link:
Signs of Bed Bugs: How to Detect Bed Bugs - orkincanada.ca