How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

If headlines and horror stories are to be believed, Cimex lectularius (as it’s known to scientists — that’s the common bed bug to us) is your worst nightmare. Not so, says Brittany Campbell, an entomologist for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). “While bed bugs are alarming, it’s important to note that they do not spread disease. They can be troubling because of possible reactions to their bites and there is some evidence they can even cause respiratory allergies.”

“It may be impossible to fully prevent getting bed bugs,” she continues, “but the best prevention is attempting not to bring them home in the first place. Learn what bed bugs look like and the signs of an infestation and then inspect the places you visit and items you bring into your home to limit the introduction and spread of bed bugs.”