Bed bugs are increasingly showing up in homes, apartments, hotels, and dormitories throughout the US. They hitch rides in luggage, boxes, shoes, and other mobile objects. Infestations are not tied to unsanitary living conditions.
Bed bugs are flat, wingless, oval-shaped, and are often mistaken for ticks. Distinguishing characteristics include:
Mahogany to Rust-Brown Color
Six Legs
Short Golden Body Hair
Two Antennae
Signs of Bed Bug Infestation:
Red Splotchy Skin on Your Face, Neck, Arms, and Legs
Incessant Itching
Raised Bumps Appearing in a Line or Cluster
Bloody Stains on Bedding
Dark-Colored Stains on Sheets
Sweet or Musty Smell in a Room
Bed bugs are extremely difficult to eliminate. Your first step should be to contact a professional who will confirm that the infestation is bed bugs, locate them, and apply the right treatment. Future inspections and treatments may be necessary.
