- Increased Cases: Singapore is witnessing a surge in demand for pest control services, particularly for bedbug eradication. Pest control firms have reported a 40% to 50% increase in calls for service in November, with customers ranging from travelers returning home with bedbugs to those taking preventive measures.
Costs of Extermination
- Varied Expenses: The cost of fumigation services varies based on the severity of the infestation and the size of the property. While an average fumigation for a four-room Housing Board flat costs around $400, larger properties can cost up to $2,000. In extreme cases, customers have paid up to $20,000 for multiple rounds of fumigation and heat treatment.
Hotel Industry’s Response
- Preventive Measures: Despite not experiencing a surge in bedbug cases, hotel chains in Singapore are maintaining strict cleanliness protocols. Hotels like Millennium Hotels and Resorts and IHG Hotels & Resorts are employing preventive maintenance programs and professional pest controllers. Employees are trained to detect early signs of bedbug infestation, and affected rooms are isolated for comprehensive cleaning and extermination.
Conclusion
The increasing demand for pest control services in Singapore highlights the growing concern over bedbug infestations, particularly in the context of international travel. The response from both the pest control industry and the hotel sector underscores the importance of proactive measures and awareness in dealing with such infestations.
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