February 2011 Articles

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LSU AgCenter seeing increased calls about bedbugs

LSU AgCenter seeing increased calls about bedbugs Source: LSU AgCenter Bedbugs are more of a nuisance than a health hazard, but they should be correctly identified and dealt with, according to several LSU AgCenter entomologists. “Bedbugs are an increasingly serious problem,” said LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Chris Carlton. “They are beginning to transition from large hotels to apartment blocks, and it’s only a matter of time before they get in people’s houses.” The LSU AgCenter is getting a steady increase in the number of calls, he said, adding it is likely to escalate as people travel more. “Be sure to get the bugs diagnosed by an entomologist, if possible,” Carlton said. There are a few other insects that can be mistaken for bedbugs, Carlton said, explaining some similar pests attack birds and occasionally will invade houses but generally won’t establish a long-term presence there. If you have a specimen and are unsure if it is a bedbug, the Louisiana State Arthropod Museum at LSU can help, Carlton said. Go to www.entomology.lsu.edu for the correct procedure. Basic service, identification and diagnosis are available for $20 per insect sample or photograph(s) submitted. (Multiple photos of the same species count as one sample.) Response time generally is 24 hours. The first signs of a bedbug infestation usually are bites on the body, said LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Timothy Schowalter. Even though the creatures are small (one-fourth of an inch in diameter), an infestation will produce enough bugs for the human eye to see, he said, adding that the bugs are cinnamon-colored and flat. “They can get in walls between electrical conduits,” Schowalter said. Carlton said bites are a significant health problem but not life-threatening. They do cause increased anxiety, however. These creatures don’t thrive on filth, said LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Dennis Ring. “They feed only on blood, usually mammals or birds.” Bedbugs are most active at night, Ring added, saying you should examine your bedding for signs of the pests. “Pull the sheets back and look for bugs, eggs or blood stains,” Ring said. Bedbugs also can be inside drawers, books and folds in curtains. Clean furniture and vacuum cracks in wood floors and doors where bugs may hide, Ring said. Then take the vacuum bag out and put it in a plastic bag before putting it in the trash. Always check hotel bedding before bringing your belongings in, he said. “You want to be sure you don’t bring them home.” Other advice includes keeping luggage off the floor and zipped during hotel stays. Upon return, wash clothes and bedding in hot water and dry on high heat. “Control is no longer simple,” Ring said. “Nonchemical measures exist, but in most cases, judicious use of pesticides is involved.” “Have a professional exterminator go through your home,” Schowalter said.