Researchers from Simon Fraser University are hopeful they have discovered a way to get rid of bed bugs.
According to a new study, SFU biology professor Gerhard Gries and chemist Robert Britton have developed a pheromone to attract bed bugs into traps.
The bed bug pheromone consists of “five volatile components” that attract bed bugs combined with histamine, which signals “safe shelter” to the bug, causing them to stay put.
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At least one SFU researcher made a personal sacrifice in the name of science. Regine Gries, wife of lead researcher Gerhard Gries, suffered 180,000 bed bug bites as part of the research. She may endure more bites as they work to finalize a commercial product.
“I’m not too thrilled about this,” said Regine Gries, who is allergic to bug cites, in a statement, “but knowing how much this technology will benefit so many people, it’s all worth it.”
Once thought to be eradicated in developed nations, bed bugs have reappeared across Canada and around the globe.
Locally, bed bugs have been an ongoing problem in Vancouver and around B.C. In 2011, BC Housing spent nearly $750,000 dealing with bed bugs.
BC Housing says the “best way to manage a bed bug infestation is to prevent it from taking hold.” It is best to limit second-hand furniture and minor renovations to isolate rooms can also limit the spread of bed bugs.
Vancouver Coastal Health also has a guide to help you control bed bugs.
-with files from Amy Judd
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