In 2011, the University of Kentucky and the National Pest Management Association teamed up to conduct the "Bugs Without Borders Survey," a telling examination with results showing that bed bug infestations have increased greatly in recent years. In fact, 99 percent of pest management professionals in North America surveyed reported a call for bed beg control in the past year. That rate was up drastically from only 11 percent of respondents who encountered a bed bug infestation ten years prior.
"The increase in bed bug encounters is likely due to a combination of factors, but one thing is clear - this pest shows no signs of retreating," noted Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for NPMA. "Of most concern are the places where pest professionals are encountering bed bugs, such as, schools, hospitals, and hotels/motels. In many cases the numbers of professionals who have reported treating certain types of businesses and commercial facilities has seen double digit growth."
Here are four other surprising facts about bed bugs you may not have known.