MRSA, VRE traces found in bed bugs

Reports of bed bug infestations are on the rise worldwide.  Recently, scientists in Canada studying five bed bugs found on patients at St. Paul's Hospital, found traces of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium, or VRE.   However as of yet, no evidence indicating that bed bugs can transmit disease to humans has been found. 

Still, the findings underscore the need for consumers to take simple but critical steps to protect against infestations. Research has found that bed bugs are becoming immune to sprays and chemicals that were once thought to be an effective method to rid the pests.

Gail Getty, a noted Entomologist at the University of California Berkeley, believes that a critical tool in fighting the epidemic is protecting and encasing mattresses, box springs and pillows with bed bug protector encasements that feature bed bug resistant fabric, reinforced seams and secure zippers, like the entomologist tested AllergyLuxe® ARM & HAMMER™ Bed Bug Barrier line.

Bed bug encasements are proven to effectively keep the insects out of box springs, mattresses and pillows. If the bedding has already been infested, AllergyLuxe® ARM & HAMMER™ Bed Bug Barrier mattress, box spring and pillow protectors will keep bed bugs inside, disrupting their feeding routine and ultimately eliminating them.

"Bed bugs are a very serious issue that consumers need to not only be aware of, but also take precautionary measures to protect themselves and their belongings from costly invasions," said Getty. "Luckily, there are a few easy steps consumers can take that can dramatically reduce their chances of infestations."

In addition to protecting bedding with bed bug encasements, Gail Getty also offers consumers the below tips to protect themselves:

• Clean your home regularly and reduce clutter
• Inspect all used items before bringing into home, including suitcases and travel belongings and clothing
• Educate yourself on what bed bugs and evidence of bed bugs look like
• Multi-unit housing tenants form a community bed bug task force that includes your management company and pest management professional and outline an "Action Plan"

There is a good chance that the bed bug epidemic will never fully go away, but taking simple proactive steps like these at home can help minimize your chance of becoming a victim.