The recent viral news about the bed bug infestation on the metal chairs inside the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has again shifted the spotlight on the importance of pest control. Many individuals are shocked that bed bugs can infest other materials apart from mattresses—a common misconception due to the pests’ name, which is arguably a misnomer. While stricter regulations regarding screening the items coming and leaving the country through international airports and any port on that matter, the recent troubling news had people wondering if their home is due for a pest control appointment.
Pest Control: Kailangan Ba Talaga Para Sa Bahay Mo?
Image from House Digest
Bed bugs and other pests normally infest locations where they can hide from predators like spiders and terminators such as humans. While bed bugs do have the word ‘bed’ directly embedded in their common name, bed bugs can and will infest other materials apart from mattresses and upholstered and wooden furniture. Bed bugs can also infest metal chairs and other materials as long as it has an opening or a crevice in which they can hide inside.
The bite of a bed bug can be painful. For other individuals, bed bug bites can trigger an allergic reaction that may cause the bite marks to enlarge. Painful swellings on the bite site are also a possibility. On rare occasions, anaphylaxis can happen.
Having your home checked for pests is necessary if there is any suspicion of an infestation. It is not essential to have your home checked for pests regularly, although doing so will ensure that you can avoid any infestation before it begins. If you do suspect that your home has a pest infestation, pest control providers can visit your home and do treatments bi-monthly, monthly, or every three months depending on the severity of the infestation.
Below are a few effective preventative steps to keep your home pest-free:
Image from WorkWave
Vacuum Regularly
Vacuum your home regularly and pay close attention to cracks, crevices, and seams in your furniture. Also, make sure to dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister regularly.
Seal Cracks and Crevices
Use caulk or other appropriate sealants to close gaps or seal any cracks or crevices in walls, baseboards, and furniture where bed bugs could hide.
Reduce Clutter
Minimize clutter in your living space because clutter provides additional hiding places for bed bugs and other types of pests.
Regularly Launder Bedding
Wash and dry bedding, curtains, and any infested clothing regularly using hot water and high heat.
Be Wary of Used Items
Thoroughly inspect used furniture, mattresses, and other secondhand items before bringing them into your home. Check seams, crevices, and any potential hiding spots for bed bugs. Be cautious when acquiring used items, especially furniture and clothing.
Home remedies and DIY natural pest treatments can also be effective, but bed bugs persist, requiring a licensed pest control professional. These professionals can assess the severity of the infestation and design the appropriate treatment plan accordingly. Follow-up measures and monitoring can also be done if necessary.
Keep It Clean and Bite Free
Image from GMA Network
The recent news raised public concern about bed bugs, which prompted many homeowners to check if their houses needed an inspection. Speculations about the origins of the bed bug from NAIA and the pest control efforts of the international airport were also raised, as people have now become wary of going to the NAIA terminal in case they get bitten by the pests. Due to this, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) general manager Eric Ines stated that the revocation of the contract of current NAIA pest control and housekeeping contractors is being considered.
“I saw the contracts and the terms of reference. It shows they only have eight personnel handling every terminal. This is not enough. If only we could change this,” Ines said.
Regardless of the location, bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers and hiders. Preventive measures are crucial in reducing the risk of infestations in utilized spaces, especially your home. If you find yourself dealing with a bed bug issue, consider seeking the assistance of a licensed pest control professional for effective and targeted treatment.
References
Does My House Need Pest Control? (2024, February 13). TopBest Pest Services, Inc. Retrieved March 8, 2024, from https://topbest.ph/blogs/does-my-house-need-pest-control/
What Is The Best Preventative Pest Control? – Forbes Home. (2022, November 21). Forbes. Retrieved March 8, 2024, from https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/pest-control/how-to-prevent-pests/
