TCC Travel Tips—What You Need to Know About Bedbugs

If you have been living under a rock, then you may not know what we are experiencing a huge bedbug infestation in the U.S., especially in New York City. So much so that there are people running for office in New York who are vowing to rid the Big Apple of their bedbug problem. Bedbugs have no become a political topic and platform issue.

What is behind the bedbug infestation affecting so many large cities across the country? We are living in a mobile society where we travel more on business and pleasure and we also do a lot of commuting. Many more people are staying in hotels more than 20 years ago, as taking trips have become more affordable.

Bedbugs are bloodsuckers. Adult bedbugs are brown and the babies are yellow. They hide on sheets and other items with fabric including towels and on carpet.

Bedbugs usually are transferred in hotels and end up on your clothing and in your suitcase. You take them home with you without even knowing it. According to Missy Henriksen of the National Pest Management Association, to avoid bringing unwanted critters home with you, “check your hotel room. When you return, wash your clothing in hot water, dry it on a hot cycle and vacuum your suitcase.” Also, look behind your headboard and mattress for bedbugs before you unpack your items in your hotel. Bedbugregistry.com lists hotels and apartments with outbreaks of bedbugs so check that site before you travel to see if your hotel is listed.

If you have bedbugs, consult a professional who can rid them easily with their tools and chemicals. Bedbugs don’t transmit diseases but they do bite and can cause unsightly rash and redness on the skin.

That adage “don’t let the bedbugs bite” is now a reality. Do what you can to make sure they don’t end up in your home by following the advice above.

Safe travels, guys!

Source: People Magazine