Bed bugs
Bed bugs are small, brownish insects that feed on the blood of people, other mammals and birds. They usually have an oval body and a short, broad head. The body as a whole is flat. They are about 4 to 5mm (1/4 inch) long. Bed bugs can crawl very quickly on the floor, walls, and ceilings. Bed bugs typically bite at night, and often bite around a person’s face, neck, upper torso, arms, and hands.
How are bed bugs spread?
Bed bugs are wingless and cannot fly or jump, but enter extremely small spaces because of their flattened bodies. Bed bugs spread very quickly and usually travel from place to place causing infestations by hitching rides on objects such as purses, clothing, furniture, and luggage.
Should I be concerned about bed bugs?
At this time, there have been no known cases of bed bugs spreading disease to humans. They are most active in warm weather, coming out at night to feed. They live and hide in the folds of mattresses, in bed frames, and behind baseboards. They also like dark places and will bite exposed skin when people are sleeping.
How can Public Health help the public respond to bed bug infestations?
Currently public health inspectors in the Health Protection Division provide education and guidance to the public on what they need to do if they have a bed bug infestation.
How can Public Health help with bed bug infestations in rental units?
Public Health Sudbury & Districts works with tenants, landlords, and the City of Greater Sudbury by-law department to follow up on bed bug infestations in rental units. Public Health can play an important role in the first stages of a bed bug infestation. When a bed bug infestation is discovered, Public Health can work with a tenant and landlord to fix the problem.
How can I report a bed bug infestation?
In order for us to help correct a bed bug infestation, we recommend the tenant first report the problem to the landlord before contacting Public Health to get involved.
If action is not taken, or your property manager refuses to address the issue, you can submit your question or complaint electronically or contact Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200, ext. 464 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200) and discuss it with a public health inspector.
This item was last modified on December 16, 2019