D3144: Performance of bed bug control products against a pyrethroid-resistant strain of Cimex lectularius L.

The widespread development of insecticide resistance to commercial bed bug control products has become a persistent problem. Bed bugs can significantly impact individuals and communities, with millions spent on pest control services, replacement and treatment of infested items, medical expenses, and even relocation. Businesses and hotels can lose revenue from cancellations due to decreased consumer confidence, reduced occupancy, and cleanup costs. These issues compel industry and academic research institutions to identify populations of bed bugs that have developed resistance and to test them against current and new formulations to determine which active ingredients will provide the best possible control. Six spray formulations were tested on a pyrethroid-resistant strain of Cimex lectularius L., using different active ingredients and synergists. The laboratory assays were conducted with exposure periods of 24 hours and 30 days after aerosol applications. Results and the prospective use of these products for controlling bed bugs will be discussed.