Aprehend® Bed Bug – Fungal spores biopesticide – natural fungal disease new technology. When the bug comes into contact with a treated surface, the fungal spores stick to its feet and body and are taken back to its harborage areas. The spores transfer easily between bed bugs by direct contact, targeting bed bugs that do not leave the harborage area. After 24 hours, the spores will germinate, like seeds, and penetrate directly through the cuticle of the bed bug. Once inside, the fungal disease grows in the blood system, killing the bed bug with 3-10 days.
The fungus in Aprehend® is called Beauveria bassiana GHA. It is highly effective against bed bugs. Biopesticides are usually inherently less toxic than conventional pesticides. Biopesticides generally affect only the target pest and closely related organisms. In contrast to broad spectrum, conventional pesticides that may affect organisms as different as birds, insects, and mammals. Convenient for businesses as well.
The EPA summary on risk to human health is as follows:
When applied as a pesticide to control bed bugs indoors, EPA concludes that use of Beauveria bassiana GHA will not result in unreasonable adverse effects to humans.
The Aprehend® SDS uses the signal word ‘Danger’ because some of the components of the oil formulation are ‘Petroleum Distillates.’ These products should not be inhaled. For this reason, respiratory protection must be worn during application of Aprehend® and residents and pets should not re-enter areas where application has taken place for 4 hours. This ensures that all spray droplets have settled and no longer pose an inhalation risk.
How do you get bed bugs?
Bed bugs need to be introduced into an environment. They do not jump or fly but are excellent hitch-hikers and can be transported on clothing, luggage, used furniture and various other objects. Risk for bed bug exposure increases in several of the following situations:
- Purchasing or using second-hand furniture and mattresses
- Entertaining or being an overnight guest
- Staying in hotels, college dormitories, boarding schools
- Children coming home from summer camp