Bedbugs Can Withstand Bitter Cold: Study
However, exposing bedbug-infested clothing or other small items to icy conditions remains an effective way to control the parasites, the study found.
Like many other insects, bedbugs attempt to protect themselves against freezing by lowering the freezing point of their body fluids.
Killing bedbugs in all their life stages requires a minimum of 48 hours at -4 degrees Fahrenheit or 80 hours at about 3 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the study, which was published recently in the Journal of Economic Entomology.
Researcher Joelle Olson and colleagues also found that bedbug eggs can survive short-term exposure to temperatures as low as -13 degrees Fahrenheit.
The researchers recommended placing bedbug-infested items in plastic bags in the freezer for two to four days, depending on the freezer's temperature.
More information
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more about bedbugs.
Deadly Chagas disease is now affecting Americans, experts warn Credit: HealthDay
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Out East Show: Visit The Shamrock evergreen maze, Sannino Vineyard, Seven Ponds Orchard and the Warrior Ranch Foundation NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.
