Bedbugs are small-about ¼ inch fully grown, wingless parasites that are generally found in beds or other areas people or animals sleep and will fed on their host blood at night while the host sleeps.
In the 1940's they were mostly exterminated but an unfortunate resurge has allowed the blood sucking parasites to flourish.
Unlike dust mites or ticks, these are classified as insects and they come in over 108 different species.
Although they cannot transmit any diseases, the host can become allergic to the bed bug salvia after being bitten over time and have skin irritations that resemble mosquito bites.
The host can also become anemic from the constant loss of blood over time.
Bed bugs are very flat and this allows them to survive in the cracks and crevices unseen.
Certain species of the bed bug can survive for up to three years without a host so even a clean, vacant apartment can be hiding bugs in the carpet, behind wall molding, in furniture or even in flaps of loose wallpaper.
Most of the species however can only survive a year without a host to feed on.
Once a homeowner or tenant established that there is an infestation of these parasites the initial reaction is often to get rid of the infected furniture however this method of control is not recommended.
Not only will this not get rid of the problem, it will have the potential to spread the bedbugs into other homes once the bedbugs hit the street.
A thorough house cleaning is recommended to remove excessive clutter where they can hide and the offending mattress and box spring should be sealed up in an air tight bag.
Any bug inside the bag will die and can be disposed off.
Keep the cot away from the wall and make sure bedding is not touching the floor to keep the parasites from recessing it.
Remember they are wingless so they can only get into bed with you by climbing.
Placing the bed frame legs in cups or dishes of mineral oil will help eliminate this as an access point.
It is not recommended that residence take it upon their selves to use pesticides to rid a home of these unwanted invaders.
Pesticides when mishandled can kill and harm more than just bugs and legally you are liable if your mishandling of pesticides causes any harm to others.
It is a far better idea to just let a professional exterminator handle the parasites.
A professional exterminator is trained to thoroughly kill all eggs and developing insects and safely remove the offending insects from your home and can give you valuable insight into steps you can take to avoid another infestation of your home.