“Sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite” isn’t just something we grew up listening to from our parents as kids – it is now becoming a reality. Bed Bugs have been making a comeback in the United States. Foreign travel has been said to be one of the main reasons for the resurgence.

Bed Bugs are a small parasite-like insect that feeds on the blood of humans. This insect is very good at hiding in cracks and crevices around the sleeping area and coming out at night to feed when you least expect it. When traveling, take a quick look around the bed paying attention to the corner protectors on the box springs, seems of the mattress and headboards. If you see any staining on the mattress that looks like dots drawn with a felt tip marker, it may have a old or current bed bug infestation. Try not to put your luggage on the bed this makes easy access for these little fellas to travel with you.

Most hotels and resorts have been very proactive at keeping bed bugs at bay, but since they are inadvertently carried in by the guests they do on occasion get past even the best-trained personnel. We have also had bed bugs start to pop up in residential houses and again most of the time it is from a house guest that has been traveling abroad and brings them unknowingly in their luggage.

Bed Bugs can survive up to a year without feeding but generally like to feed every five to ten days. If you think you have bed bugs, call a pest professional in your area and have them come inspect the area in question.