Bedbugs and Travel: Is There a Connection?

Do you know how bedbugs got into the United States? It is believed that these insects were brought by the early European colonists. That time, bedbugs were easily eradicated because a potent insecticide was used. The insecticide was DDT. But today, this insecticide is no longer being sold. With the increased number of tourists getting into and out of the United States, bedbug infestations also re-surfaced.

Increased international travel has also increased the transfer of bedbugs. For example, there was a reported incident in 2003 wherein a 7-year-old boy developed red raised lesions that caused severe itching in his lower legs. The presence of insects in the boys room was suspected. Upon inspection, they found bedbugs in the folds of the mattress. The house has never been infested by bedbugs before. It was well-kept and clean. The family noted that a month before, two family friends from Nepal stayed with them for two days. These friends were the most likely carriers of the bedbugs.

Bedbug infestations have been found in places with high occupancy rates like motels, hotels, and others. If you happened to stay in a bedbug-infested area and you didn't know it, you can definitely bring these insects with you anywhere you go.

Unknowingly, bedbugs can travel with you in your luggage. It will be best to be extra vigilant of signs of bedbug infestations.

Cracks and crevices in the walls and floors are possible habitats of bedbugs. If you see any inform the hotel manager and try transferring to another place at once.

I am pretty sure that most motels or hotels have luggage stands in the rooms. Use this luggage stand instead of putting your luggage on furniture or on the floor.

If you start getting bites that are red, raised, and form a linear pattern, immediately vacuum your luggage and wash these in the hottest water as soon as possible. You can treat the bedbug bites with topical corticosteroids.

Whenever you travel, you must be aware that bedbugs can be found everywhere. Always be on the look out for signs of infestations so that you do not end up getting bitten.

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