Bed bugs have become a growing concern in Wyoming, infesting homes and lodging establishments across the state. These pests, known for feeding on human blood, are not known to transmit diseases but can cause significant discomfort and economic strain.
Cities Affected
Bed bugs have been reported in multiple cities throughout Wyoming. Affected areas include:
- Rock Springs
- Rawlins
- Laramie
- Casper
- Glenrock
- Cheyenne
- Gillette
- Sheridan
- Fort Bridger
The Big Horn Basin has also seen increased bed bug activity in its lodging facilities1.
Identifying Bed Bugs
Bed bug infestations can be identified by several signs5:
- Reddish-brown stains on sheets or mattresses
- Eggs and eggshells, which are about the size of a pinhead
- Yellow skins shed by nymphs as they grow
- Red, itchy bites on exposed skin
Prevention and Control
To prevent bed bug infestations, it’s important to take precautions, especially when traveling:
- Inspect mattresses and sheets for signs of bed bugs, such as shed skins and blood spots.
- Launder clothing and belongings that may have been exposed to bed bugs at high temperatures.
- Keep potentially infested luggage in plastic bags to prevent the spread of the insects.
Several methods can be employed to control bed bug infestations:
- Vacuuming: Use a vacuum with a suction wand to target areas where bed bugs hide, such as seams, folds, and edges of beds and furniture. Dispose of the vacuum contents in a sealed bag.
- Steaming: Commercial steamers can be used to kill bed bugs and eggs on contact.
- Freezing: Spot-freezing equipment can also be effective in treating infested areas.
- Heat Treatment: Heating the infested area to a temperature of 120-130°F can kill bed bugs and eggs.
- Insecticides: Professionals use various insecticides to treat areas where bed bugs are found.
Professional Help
Bed bug infestations are notoriously difficult to treat, and pest control professionals should be contacted. Professionals are trained to detect bed bugs and implement customized treatment plans. In Wyoming, companies like Peak Pest Solutions offer bed bug treatments using high-quality products to eliminate pests.
Historical Context
Historically, methods for bed bug control were labor-intensive, involving dismantling furniture, burning straw mattresses, and using substances like boiling water and coal oil. Modern approaches are more targeted and effective, but professional intervention is generally recommended to ensure complete eradication.
Sources:
[1] https://www.powelltribune.com/stories/bed-bugs-in-the-basin,10164
[2] https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef636
[3] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
[4] https://agresearch.montana.edu/wtarc/producerinfo/entomology-insect-ecology/BedBugs/BedbugsMangement.pdf
