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Bah, humbug! Bedbug anxiety grips Korea
Bedbugs were largely eradicated in Korea thanks to a national extermination drive in the 1980s. In fact, only nine infestations were reported to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency in the 10 years since 2014. However, the country is experiencing a worrying revival in cases. At least 30 infestations have been reported this year.
With reports of outbreaks around the world and domestic infestations at lodging facilities and saunas, bedbug anxiety has gripped the nation.
The pests, about the size of an apple seed, feed on the blood of humans and animals. Although bedbugs generally pose minimal health risks, their bites can cause itchy skin and painful swelling for some, and mental anguish and distress for all.
Since bedbugs cannot jump or fly, they spread by hitching rides on people or pets. Unknowingly picking up a bug and bringing it home feels even more awful in this post-COVID world.
The bloodsucking parasites are tough but can be thoroughly eliminated. First, confirm an infestation. Since bedbugs are nocturnal animals, you're unlikely to see live ones during the day. Look for their eggs, which are pearl white and about the size of a pinhead. You can also look for empty shells, as the bugs molt as they grow. The bugs' brown-black, dot-like fecal stains may be the easiest signs to see.
Bedbugs hide in many places. Be sure to check any folds, nooks or dark crevices. Potential hiding spots include mattress seams, bed frames, screw holes, joints, clothing, furniture, bookshelves, pictures and loose wallpaper.
A combination of physical and chemical actions can eradicate the bugs. Temperatures of 60℃ can kill both adults and eggs. Steam cleaners that can reach this temperature can treat mattresses and other furniture. Place clothes and sheets in a dryer and run them at the hottest setting for at least 30 minutes. When the treatment is finished, vacuum everything and immediately discard the vacuum bag.
If you decide to use pesticides, only use ones approved by the Ministry of the Environment. Do not apply pesticides to any places that will come into direct contact with skin. Unfortunately, over-the-counter chemicals may not be strong enough, so industrial-strength pesticides used by a professional are recommended.
When staying in a hotel or other lodging, place your luggage on a suitcase rack or in the tub rather than on the floor or furniture. If you spot signs of a bedbug infestation, immediately request a new room at the opposite end of the building. When returning home, use the heat treatment methods mentioned above to prevent infesting your house.
Busan Metropolitan City will continue a citywide campaign to tackle bedbugs and disinfect high-risk spaces, such as bathhouses and accommodations, until Dec. 29.