Local Bed Bug Epidemic

Recently, there has been a growth in bed bug infestation in the Seattle area--in hotels, motels, apartments, and shelters. Please listen to this information for your health & safety!

• Adult bed bugs are approximately ¼ inch long, (about the size of a pencil eraser) and nearly as flat as a piece of paper, and are reddish-brown in color. After feeding they will appear fatter and darker red, like an animated blood drop
• Bedbug Eggs are 1 milimeter long (about the size of a pinhead) eggs are pearly white, pear shaped and & are usually in clusters of 10 to 50 found in crevices
• Bites usually appear in rows of 3 or more.
Reactions to bites can vary significantly between individuals from a mild, itchy welt to a more severe rash-like symptom. Some individuals do not have any reaction, but may have been bitten. However, the most common reactions appear as a raised reddened welt similar to a mosquito bite.

Because they prefer hiding in small crevices with limited access and can go up to 18 months without food, bed bugs are extremely difficult to eliminate. The following procedures are recommended to help prevent and eradicate bed bug infestations.

• Keep all bed linens off the floor and wash all sheets in hot water weekly.
• Check beds for any signs of infestation like reddish brown specks or bug casings.
• Also inspect for bedbugs in luggage, backpacks, TVs, furniture, lamps—anywhere there are cracks and spaces for them to crawl
• Keep all beds away from the walls
• When moving into a new space, wash all clothes in hot water & dry on high, and take a soapy hot shower.
• Be cautious of any used furniture, or other used items such as TVs or lamps
• Beware of used clothes-wash everything in hot water before wearing or putting away.
• Don’t borrow clothing, furniture or other items from neighbors.
• Keep your space clean and free of clutter—vacuum regularly and keep stuff put away.
• Check for bites on yourself and your children

If you are bitten or see any bedbugs or signs of infestation, let your landlord, shelter staff or case manager know right away! Landlords are responsible for providing extermination services.
Don’t let the bedbugs bite!