Bed Bugs: A Threat for All Seasons

You may think that cold temperatures are enough to stave off the threat of bed bugs during the winter months. The fact is that these pests can invade a household at any time of the year.

Exposing bed bugs to freezing temperatures has long been one of the conventional methods of eliminating them. However, NBC News Science recently reported on a study showing that they’re more resistant to cold than was once believed.

Researchers discovered that bed bugs actually have a fairly high tolerance to cold thanks to their ability to adopt “freeze-intolerant” strategies. These involve lowering the freezing point of their bodily fluids to compensate for the colder temperatures. Some of the bugs tested were even able to survive short periods of sub-zero temperatures. It took nearly four days of exposure to a constant temperature of 3.2 degree Fahrenheit to kill off all the specimens.

Once bed bugs make their way into your home, their minute size and tough exoskeletons make them hard to control. Since they’re nocturnal, the mere presence of bed bugs can cause insomnia and lack of sleep above and beyond any effects from their bites. They can also create a cleanliness hazard from their shed skin, eggs and excrement.

The best way to deal with an infestation is through the experienced Monmouth County NJ bed bug control professionals at Allison Pest Control. Our thorough, eco-friendly method of treatment eliminates every trace of bed bugs so you and your family can sleep soundly. Contact us today for immediate and expert assistance.