Bedbugs. Seriously!

Bedbugs, ancient parasites, have resurged globally, infesting homes and public spaces. Their spread is aided by global travel and resistance to insecticides. Historically, they thrived with urbanization and central heating. Post-WWII insecticides reduced their numbers, but modern bans and resistance have led to a resurgence. Bedbugs now pose a significant challenge, thriving in various environments and resisting control measures.

What attracts bedbugs to humans during the night?

• The sound of breathing

• The warmth and carbon dioxide from the body

• The smell of sweat

• The movement of the body

Which cities have experienced significant bedbug infestations in recent years?

• Los Angeles, New York, and London

• Rome, Madrid, and Cairo

• Berlin, Moscow, and Beijing

• Paris, Tokyo, and Sydney

How did central heating contribute to the bedbug problem?

• It increased the humidity levels in homes

• It provided more hiding spots for bedbugs

• It allowed bedbugs to thrive year-round

• It made homes more accessible to bedbugs

What was the impact of synthetic insecticides on bedbug populations after World War Two?

• They had no effect on bedbugs

• They eradicated bedbugs permanently

• They increased bedbug populations

• They temporarily reduced bedbug populations

What factors have contributed to the resurgence of bedbugs in recent times?

• Increased use of pesticides

• Improved sanitation practices

• Insecticide resistance and global travel

• Decreased human population