Bedbugs becoming increasingly common in Helsinki

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The incidence of bedbugs (Cimex lectularius) is growing in the City of Helsinki.
      According to the reports received by the City of Helsinki’s Environment Centre, the number of bedbugs has doubled over the past 12 months.
      A total of 35 contacts relating to bedbugs were recorded by the Environment Centre in the period from April through September.
     
A bedbug is a small insect that lives off the blood of humans and other warm-blooded hosts.
      Because of their dislike of sunlight, bedbugs come out at night, leaving bloodstains and dark faeces on sheets, mattresses, and bed legs.
      However, there have been no known cases of bedbugs passing diseases from one person to another in Finland.
     
Cleaning, pesticides, and a good level of general hygiene all contribute to preventing these insects from spreading. However, in order to eliminate bedbugs permanently, it is advisable to summon a professional pesticide applicator.
      Bedbugs were common in Finland until the 1950s. Since the 1990s, they have been reappearing in the country as a result of increasing tourism.


Previously in HS International Edition:
  Bedbugs are making a comeback in Finland (22.2.2008)

Links:
  Bedbug (Wikipedia)
  City of Helsinki Environment Centre

Helsingin Sanomat