Battle Against Bed Bugs

We’ve heard in the past that bed bugs aren’t considered to be a health hazard despite the health issues they have cause for many people. But there is good news, according to an article for The Toronto Star written by Donovan Vincent Toronto’s public health department is urging the city to put up emergency funding of $75,000 to help people get rid of bed bugs. The drawback is that it is only a one time funding.

Councillor John Filion who is on the board of health says he believes that it will cost a lot more than $75,000 to get rid of the bed bug problem in Toronto. However, if it’s passed then this emergency money will be used to help those who don’t qualify for welfare or disability support payments to be able to receive help in getting rid of bed bugs from exterminators who will also help them prepare for the extermination.

Between March and October the health department has received 1,444 requests from citizens wanting help in getting rid of bed bugs! Because of the rising bed bug epidemic many more people are getting infestations that are harder and harder to get rid of due to the bugs immunity to pesticides. Even though the money is a step in the right direction the city may need more than that to take care of all the bed bug problems that low income families are having. It’s just just in homes and apartments but hotels as well. It’s really devastating for families to be forced to live with bed bugs and not adequate income to pay to get rid of them. However, the health department agrees that the city needs a comprehensive approach to tackle the rising bed bug epidemic.

Full story found here: http://www.thestar.com/article/538718