Bed bugs are small reddish-brown insects that are about the size of an apple seed. These tiny insects are most commonly found in homes, more specifically, bedrooms where they have access to their source for meals: humans. They hide in and around beds and in nearby bedroom furniture, including nightstands, dressers and headboards.
The bites of a bed bug can be mistaken for a mosquito or flea bite, which can worsen the problem and delay the detection of an infestation. Some people may not show any symptoms of being bitten. Bed bugs don’t carry diseases, but their bites can cause skin infections.
Signs and Symptoms
- Bite marks on the face, neck, arms, hands, or any other body parts while sleeping. These bites may take as long as two weeks to develop in some people, so it is important to look out for other signs as well.
- Bed bug’s exoskeletons after molting.
- Bed bugs in the fold of mattresses and sheets.
- Rusty-colored blood spots due to their blood-filled fecal material that they excrete on the mattress or nearby furniture.
- A sweet musty odor.
Exposure and Treatment
- Clothing and bedding should be washed in the highest temperature allowable that won’t damage the fabric.
- Luggage and other travel items should be kept from inside the home and wrapped tight in plastic bags until they can be checked for bed bugs.
- Vacuuming, clearing clutter, and cleaning may help diminish the problem, but consulting with a pest control provider is recommended.
REMEMBER: It is often unnecessary to dispose of household items infested with bed bugs. Many things can be treated, encased, or saved.
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