Over the last few months there has been an increased focus on the rise of bed bug infestations that are blighting the lives of travellers and tourists alike. The so called super infestation appears to have originated in Paris and the little pests appear to have now made their way across the channel, possibly in the luggage of unwitting travellers.
The ongoing rugby world cup and Paris fashion show has increased the number of tourists visiting paris over recent months and this has meant the infestation has contributed to the problem spreading much quicker. In fact, there have been sightings of the little creatures on public transport in the UK. One theory is that they have made their way across the channel on Eurostar embedded in the upholstery of the carriages.
However they got here, bed bugs are definitely on the rise. According to one of the UK’s leading pest control experts, Rentokill, there has been an increase of around 65% in the number of bed bug infestations in the UK year on year. This has resulted in the leisure industry facing some serious challenges.
Bed bugs find there way into not only bedding and mattresses but also furniture and wardrobes. Once you have a bed bug infestation it is extremely difficult to get rid of it. Bed bugs have the ability to survive for up to 6 months without food and thrive by biting human skin during the night.
While we may have sympathy for hotel proprietors in their battle against the scourge that are bed bugs, they still have a duty of care to their guests. If you are the victim of hotel bed bug bites on your travels you could well be entitled to compensation. The best way top find out if you qualify for hotel bed bug bite compensation is to contact a personal injury solicitor in Manchester or wherever you are based in the uk.
While the amounts vary dependent on the severity of the problem and how it impacts you, awards of up to £5000 have been made for hotel bed bug bite compensation. In the rest of this article we are going to have a look at how to spot bed bugs, what to do if you find them in your hotel, and how to go about claiming compensation if you are unfortunate enough to get bitten.
What has Caused the Rise in Bed Bugs?
The resurgence of bed bugs is attributed to various factors, including increased international travel post pandemic, changes in pest control methods, and insecticide resistance. While they were once close to eradication in many parts of the world, they have made a menacing comeback, infesting hotels, hostels, homes and even public transport.
What are the Characteristics of Hotel Bed Bug Bites?
Bed bug bites are undoubtedly a source of discomfort for anyone unfortunate enough to be on the receiving end of them. So, what sort of symptoms can you expect to see once you have been bitten?
Red, Itchy Welts: Bed bug bites typically appear as small, raised, red welts on the skin. They are often itchy and are sometimes mistaken for mosquito or flea bites.
Linear or Clustered Pattern: Bed bug bites often appear in a linear or clustered pattern. This is because bed bugs feed in a systematic manner, typically following a path as they bite.
Night Time Bites: Bed bugs are primarily nocturnal pests, so their bites tend to occur while you’re sleeping. You may not realise you’ve been bitten until you wake up itching.
Delayed Reactions: It can take several days for the redness, itching, and swelling to develop after a hotel bed bug bite. This delayed reaction can make it challenging to immediately identify the source of the bites.
Multiple Bites: One tell tale sign of bed bug bites is the presence of multiple bites in close proximity to each other. This can create a pattern of small welts near each other on the skin.
Bite Location: Bed bug bites are most commonly found on areas of the body that are exposed while sleeping, such as the arms, shoulders, neck, and face. However, they can occur anywhere on the body.
It’s important to note that not everyone reacts to bed bug bites in the same way. Some people may have severe allergic reactions, while others may hardly notice the bites at all. Identifying bed bug bites is just one part of recognising a potential infestation.
What Should You Do if you Suffer Hotel Bed Bug Bites
If you suspect you have bed bug bites during or after your stay in a hotel and believe you could be entitled to compensation, the first thing to do is to consult a medical professional. Having them confirm the diagnosis will be valuable for your compensation claim. It’s also crucial to gather as much evidence as possible.
To prove the presence of bed bugs in your hotel, make sure to take photographs of the bed bugs themselves or their shed skin. Additionally, report the infestation to the hotel management. Finally, contact a personal injury solicitor in Manchester or anywhere else in the UK. Personal injury solicitors possess extensive expertise in hotel bed bug bite compensation claims and will help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
Although prevention is the primary goal, there are several actions you can take to safeguard yourself from potential issues. To begin with, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect your hotel room when you arrive. Additionally, avoid placing your suitcases on the floor or bed while unpacking, as doing so will significantly lower the risk of bedbugs entering your luggage and hitching a ride home with you.
Bed bug bites are not only painful, but also distressing and can completely ruin your break. So, if you are bitten by bed bugs while staying at a hotel, be proactive and contact a personal injury solicitor. They will explain the process and take up the case on your behalf. Hopefully, the contents of this article will leave you better informed about the dangers posed by bed bugs and what to do if the worst happens.
