Diseases and Conditions
Bedbugs
Preventing bites
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Prevention
Diagnosis
Treatment
Preparing for an appointment
Causes
Bedbug infestations may be linked to:
- Increased international travel
- Changes in pest control practices
- Insecticide resistance
Where do they hide?
Bedbug infestations usually occur around or near where people sleep. They hide in the cracks and crevices of:
- Mattresses
- Box springs
- Bed frame
- Headboards
- Objects or clutter near beds
They can also be found:
- Under peeling paint and loose wallpaper
- Under carpeting near baseboards
- In upholstered furniture seams
- Under light switch plates or electrical outlets
How do they spread?
Bedbugs can move from one site to another by traveling on items such as clothing, luggage, furniture, boxes and bedding.
Bedbugs can crawl about as fast as a ladybug, and can easily travel between floors and rooms in hotels or apartment complexes.
Sign of uncleanliness?
Bedbugs don't care if their environment is clean or dirty. All they need is a warm host and plenty of hiding places.