They're Back! What You Need to Know About Bed Bugs

These creatures were once as common as blue skies a mere century ago but nearly wiped out in the USA. Over the past two decades they've been making a comeback, in a big way. But they're not the sort of creature most folks will be happy to see return to society: bed bugs!

Dispelling the myths and presenting the facts in a manner designed to prevent hysteria, knowledge is the greatest weapon in the fight to eradicate our society of these pesky pests. Bed Bugs are indiscriminate feeders who feast on animal blood. They are not a sign of uncleanliness or disease. Bed bugs are easily spread and are found in all walks of life, from multi-million dollar mansions to dirt-poor nations.

Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, most commonly known as that outlawed pesticide DDT, nearly wiped out the bed bug population in the USA after its introduction and widespread use in the 1940s. However, concerns about its health hazards and environmental impact led to a ban in the USA, with few exceptions (most notably for public health reasons). In 2001, its agricultural use was banned worldwide.

The pesky, pervasive pests have been making a comeback ever since. While many factors have led to their comeback, a stark increase in globalization—including increased global trade and travel— has exacerbated the situation. What once was thought to have been a problem-no-more is turning out to be a major health concern, especially as the density of major population centers has increased around the world since their last appearance. While the bites are not lethal they can lead to infection if scratched, and they are quite itchy.

Produced by the Connecticut Coalition Against Bed Bugs (CCABB), a quasi-governmental agency created to deal with the return of the bed bug to modern society, this video provides important information for the homeowner, apartment dweller, and property manager about bed bugs.

This video shows how they travel, how they feed, how to identify them, what the effects of their "bites" are, and some best practices on how to manage an infestation.Even if you don't have bed bugs or don't think you ever will, this video provides some great information on how to be on guard against bed bugs so as to best prevent an infestation.

It's best to remember to keep a level head if you ever come across a bed bug, and don't stigmatize the person or place should you ever find one. Arm yourself with knowledge, and contact a professional to take care of the situation.

For more information and additional resources, visit the Connecticut Coalition Against Bed Bugs.

Bed Bug Training Video: They're Back! What You Need to Know About Bed Bugs: https://youtu.be/hcAfscgGf7Y