Bed Bugs
Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are insects that feed exclusively on blood. An adult bed bug is the size and shape of an apple seed. They are oval, flat, and reddish-brown in color and do not have wings. Juvenile bed bugs tend to be semi-transparent and are a golden color. Juveniles are smaller than adults and can be as small as a pinhead.
Bed bugs spread to new locations by “hitch-hiking” from infested areas on clothing, luggage, furniture, or other items. They can infest private residences as well as public or commercial areas such as hotels, movie theaters, and retail stores.
Vector Significance
Bed bugs are parasites that feed on humans and pets. Bed bug bites can often be itchy and uncomfortable. Although bed bugs are not known to spread any diseases, they can cause significant psychological distress and potentially exacerbate respiratory conditions.
Vector Control Services
A Vector Control Biologist can:
- Inspect an area that is suspected to be infested with bed bugs and determine whether bed bugs are present
- Make recommendations for the resident(s) and/or property management to address the infestation
Requesting Services
What can the public do?
The best bed bug treatment is prevention. Here are some best practices to avoid a bed bug infestation:
- Be wary of second-hand furniture, especially when found on the street Thoroughly inspect any second-hand items you bring into your home
- Inspect hotel beds, bed frames, and surrounding furniture for bed bugs and use a luggage stand when traveling
- If you suspect you have been exposed to bed bugs, or have been in a location where there is a bed bug infestation, wash and dry your clothes for at least 30 minutes on the hottest setting in a dryer
If you find bed bugs in your home:
- It is usually not necessary to throw out furniture, bedding, etc.
- Do not attempt to self-treat the issue, as this usually makes the problem worse
- The best course of action is to get a professional treatment by a licensed pest control company
- If you are renting a home and find that you have bed bugs, inform your property owner or management in writing immediately
Bed Bugs
