Scientists: U.S. Infested With Bed Bugs

[matcom]

<snip>

ATLANTA -- Bedbugs are making a comeback.

Entomologists and pest control professionals are reporting a dramatic increase in infestations throughout the country, and no one knows exactly why.

The bugs have been absent from the U.S. for so long, some thought they were a myth.

Bedbugs are tiny, brownish, flattened insects that feed exclusively on the blood of animals and humans. Their bites can be irritating but, unlike mosquitoes, they are not known to transmit blood-borne diseases from one victim to another.

Before World War II, bedbug infestations were common, but they were virtually eradicated through improvements in hygiene and the widespread use of DDT.

Some scientists said they believe that increased international travel and immigration may be partially to blame. The tiny bugs may be hitching a ride in the luggage or clothing of travelers.

http://www.wftv.com/health/9639632/detail.html

[wildhorses]

1. and heaven help us if they start hanging out in kudzu

:hide:

[crim son]

2. Me, I would not be surprised that our efforts at hygiene are not

what they could be. Even in my upscale neighborhood, there are people who live like animals, worse than animals. They wear clean clothes and shower every day, but that's about the extent of it. Most amazing, these people think it's completely normal if the living room is covered with dirty clothes and the whole house smells like cat urine, the toilets haven't been cleaned in six months and the dishes are done regularly - every week or so. Ugh. If I were a bedbug I'd probably feel right comfortable in the homes of many americans.

[kay1864]

3. Well,

per the article, high resident turnover is the factor--not unsanitary conditions.

Unlike mosquitoes, though, they are not known to transmit blood-borne diseases from one victim to another. They are extremely resilient and very difficult to exterminate. Experts say bedbugs are not necessarily an indicator of unsanitary conditions.

In the past four years, reports of bedbugs have significantly increased in U.S. cities, from New York to Honolulu, especially in hotels, hospitals and college dormitories — all places with high resident turnover.

[crim son]

4. Also all places where the mattresses are not replaced as

regularly as they should. But I get your point.