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Identifying and Controlling Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are a tough to kill pest. They require everyone's participation to eradicate.

Bed bug facts

Bed bugs are small insects that feed on the blood of people and other animals and birds.
They are oval with flat, rusty red colored bodies and they cannot fly or jump.
Bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene or cleanliness.
Bed bugs are considered a public health nuisance. However, their bites are not known to transmit disease.

Why Do I have Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs do not travel far, which is why humans are the main reason they spread. Travelers leaving their suitcases open can allow bed bugs to hitch a ride. Bringing in used furniture or clothing can spread the bugs throughout a building. Bed bugs can also be picked up while traveling.

Where do they hide?
Bed bugs are flat and can hide in very narrow spaces. They like the area under a Bed bug mattress near the human host. They are found behind mirrors, headboards, wall molding and pictures, under chairs, in furniture cushions or seams, cracks in the wall, electric outlets or any small openings. They generally are a few feet from where someone sleeps. Their "creep factor" is high as they come out at night and feed on the blood of their host. Look for blood spotting on the sheets or around pillows. Small brown spots and red rash-like itching sores are tell tale signs So far, no disease transmission has been linked to bed bugs. Bed bugs are very hard to kill.

What's the one-two punch?
A two step process is required to effectively deal with bed bugs. The first punch is to eliminate the adult population with sprays, powders, heat or other treatments. The second punch is to stop the transmission to other locations. Both the landlord and the tenant have a shared responsibility to eliminate this pest. If one end fails, the pest will return. Cooperation is the key.

More Information

Last Updated: 11/28/2023