Pest control companies get almost 500 bed bug jobs in 2011

SINGAPORE: A recent survey showed that pest control companies received close to 500 bed bug related jobs in 2011 — an increase of almost 60 per cent compared to five years ago.

According to the National Environment Agency (NEA), the type of households most affected by bed bugs is one to three—bedroom HDB flats; four—and—five—room flats and executive flats ranked second and workers quarters ranked third.

MP of Tanjong Pagar GRC Dr Lily Neo said she is planning an extensive extermination project to help residents in the Kim Seng area, particularly those from Chin Swee Road, who have complained about the parasites.

"We have covered more than 10 blocks so far and we intend to continue for the rest of the 20 blocks of rental flats. Maybe what we need now is the aftercare — after cleaning the place we must also see how we can continually keep the places clean.

"It is a challenge for us, because this is the first time we’re doing it on such an extensive scale in trying to really eradicate the bed—bugs problem permanently," she explained.

Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eliminate. They are adept at squeezing into tight spaces, multiply quickly and can survive for up to one year without food.

— CNA/ck