ASCIP
INFORMATION BULLETIN
Date: September 28, 2010
Attention: ASCIP Members
Subject: Bed Bugs (Cimex lectularius)
In
light of the recent media attention given to the resurgence of bed bug cases,
public health officials are taking steps to eradicate this parasite. Bed bugs
are small (1/4 inch), wingless, red-brown, parasitic insects that feed on the
blood of warm-blooded animals, including humans, normally during the nighttime
hours. They are similar to head lice in
that they are considered a public health nuisance. Bed bugs are not known to
transmit disease.
The CA Department of Public Health states that bed bugs
hide during the day and bite at night when people are sleeping.[1] While it is unlikely that staff and students
will be bitten during school hours, it is possible for bed bugs to be
transported on backpacks and other items to the school environment.
Bed bug bites can cause large itchy welts on the
skin. Each person’s allergic reaction is
different as the immune response varies from person to person. The bites are usually painless, and sometimes
the welt mark may not appear for up to 14 days.
This delayed response can make it difficult to pinpoint the location of
the insects. Bed bugs live in the furniture, mattresses, couches and upholstered
chairs of hotels, hospitals, long-term care facilities, public transportation,
apartment buildings and schools. Bed
bugs may also hide in piles of books, papers, and boxes. The current increase in infestations in the
United States is believed to be a combination of three issues: increased international travel; lack of
knowledge; and past reliance on and overuse of pesticides. Bed bugs became widely resistant to DDT by
the mid-1950s.[2]
Members
who believe they may have a Bed Bug infestation, should contact a licensed
pesticide applicator in accordance with its Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
plan. Propoxur, a common pesticide that
kills bed bugs is listed as a carcinogen in California and should not be used
in schools.
ASCIP
Members are encouraged to take proactive steps to minimize the infestation of
Bed Bugs in school buildings:
1
Avoid purchasing used furniture,
particularly upholstered couches and chairs.
2
Reduce the number of hiding places and
“Clean up the Clutter.”
3
Thoroughly vacuum rugs, floors, and
upholstered furniture on a nightly basis.
4
Reduce the number of cardboard boxes by
placing papers and books in plastic bins.
5
Follow the pest control professional’s
recommendations.
6
Report Bed Bug infestations and
outbreaks to the Local Health Officer.
7
Wash linens and blankets in the hottest
water possible.
8
Use glue traps to collect specimens for
identification.
ASCIP
Staff is available to assist in addressing Bed Bug concerns as they may arise.
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