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Bed Bugs and Schools

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Basics

Shows that a bed bug is about five millimeters long.
Bed Bug Size in Millimeters
Photo credit: CDC

Bed bugs have long been a pest – feeding on blood, causing itchy bites and generally irritating their human hosts. They are successful hitchhikers and can move from an infested site to furniture, bedding, baggage, boxes and clothing.

Although they typically feed on blood every five to ten days, bed bugs can be quite resilient, living for several months without feeding.

The common bed bug is Cimex lectularius. 

Life Cycle

Bed bugs produce 5-7 eggs per week and can lay up to 500 over the course of their life. They grow fastest and lay the most eggs at 80 degrees F. Learn more about the bed bug life cycle.

Health Concerns

Although bed bugs are not known to transmit disease, their presence may cause distress and health issues for many people.

The following health issues are associated with infestations of bed bugs:

  • Minor skin irritations that itch.
    • Itching can lead to excessive scratching, which can increase the chance of a secondary skin infection.
  • Moderate allergic reactions, which require medical attention.
  • Severe allergic reactions, which require immediate medical attention.
  • Increased stress is caused by minor skin irritations and the loss of sleep.

For more information on the health issues associated with bed bugs:

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Bed Bug Fact Sheets and Other Resources

bed bugs nymphs and adults
Bed Bugs Nymphs and Adults
Photo credit: Virginia Tech University  

Steps for Success in Dealing with Bed Bugs in Schools

If a bed bug is found on a child in school, it does not mean the child brought the bed bug into the school. Bed bugs do not infest people; they only feed on them. Bed bugs can crawl onto or off of a person (or their belongings) at any time. The following actions will be helpful in dealing with any bed bug sightings:

  • Educate everyone.
  • Have an action plan.
  • Remain calm.
  • One bed bug is NOT an infestation - inspect and monitor.
  • Infested classrooms require professional treatment and parental notification.
  • EPA recommends you use IPM to reduce pesticide exposure; IPM is a smart, sensible and sustainable approach to pest management.

IPM for Bed Bugs - offers numerous resources for bed bug prevention, management and treatment. Exit

Read more about integrated pest management.

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