New Bed Bug Pest Alert: Learn to Identify and Prevent These Unwanted Guests

The presence of bed bugs can be a stressful and expensive experience. This new pest alert provides information about bed bugs, how to identify them, and ways to prevent them from taking up residence in your home.

Following the 2023 Paris bed bug outbreak and subsequent headlines just one year before hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics, it is important to remain vigilant against these pesky pests. Bed bugs can easily hitchhike on luggage, furniture, and clothing. While they don’t transmit diseases, bed bugs can cause significant discomfort, stress, and financial burdens.

There are several actions you can take to greatly reduce the chance of bed bugs coming home with you. Be sure to inspect hotel rooms carefully, avoid bringing used furniture into your home, and check luggage thoroughly upon returning from trips. Seal any suspected infested items in plastic bags.

To identify a bed bug infestation, look for live insects, including adults, nymphs, and tiny white eggs. Dark, reddish-brown spots on bedding or mattresses may indicate bed bug excrement. While unexplained bites can be a sign, they are not definitive proof of bed bugs. If you discover bed bugs, contact a professional pest control service immediately and avoid moving infested items to prevent spreading the infestation.

Early detection is key! By familiarizing yourself with bed bugs and taking preventative measures, you can avoid the stress and expense of an infestation.

Check out the Bed Bugs Pest Alert for more information. Free printed copies of this pest alert are also available.

This pest alert is available thanks to the Regional IPM Centers and funding generously provided by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Crop Protection and Pest Management Program (2022-70006-38001).