Bed bugs are tiny wingless, blood-sucking insects that can cause us great discomfort when bitten. They are named ‘bed bugs’ mainly because these little insects are commonly found infesting beds and mattresses. They are known to emerge at night to feed on the poor victims resting on the bed. Bed bugs have been around since a long time, and the phrase “sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite” is a common goodnight-wish, for being bitten by bed bugs could certainly ruin your night’s rest.

However, just as how humans have been exploring new territory to develop and inhabit, bed bugs have been too. There is an increasing amount of news on reported sightings and biting cases of bed bugs, not only in residential buildings, but also in commercial buildings as well, such as hotels and resorts. However, bed bugs are no longer limited to the bed area now. There have been reports and complains on social media that bed bugs are being found on transport systems, such as buses and airplanes, thus calling attention to the awareness and treatment methods to control bed bugs infestations. Despite promised actions that service providers vow to take to control bed bugs, what can we, as the consumer, do to protect ourselves from these notorious hitch-hikers? There has to be something we can do to prevent bed bugs from spreading, especially to our homes right?

First and foremost, there must be proper awareness. We need to be aware that bed bugs is a rising issue of late, and that despite their name, they are capable of being found anywhere humans go. Places where humans spend most of their time in, such as hotel rooms and the commute, are of highest risk of bed bug infestation. By being on the lookout for these blood-suckers, we can check for signs of bed bug infestation in an area before we settle in. This can save us from a night of restless sleep (and in worse cases- allergies).

The next thing we can do is to prevent these insects from following us home, wherever we came from. Bed bugs are capable of latching on to clothing items and bags of unwary travellers. They can be resilient and good in hide-and-seek. We would not want these unwanted souvenirs with us when we reach home, so by being aware and checking our items after a trip, we can greatly reduce the chances of bed bug infestation.

As they say, prevention is better than cure. Here at Ikari, we have many useful tips and information on the different pests that plague us, and how to control them. Join our efforts in battling these pests by being aware and vigilant!