Bed Bugs

Bed bugs (Cimex spp.) are nuisance insects that feed on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals (including birds, rodents, bats, and pets) at night. Adult bed bugs are oval-shaped, smaller than an apple seed, wingless and reddish-brown in color. They are not known to transmit disease.

Where do bed bugs live?

Bed bugs hide during the day in dark, protected areas such as cracks and crevices, windows, door frames, mattresses, picture frames, loose wallpaper, baseboards. Bed bugs do not travel far on their own but are transported by humans in luggage, clothing, bedding and furniture. Likelihood of a bed bug infestation increases where there is a high rate of occupant turnover, such as in hotels, shelters, airplanes, trains, and apartments. Typically infestations are not a reflection of poor hygiene or housekeeping.

How do I know if I have bed bugs?

An infestation can be recognized by reddish or black stains on bedding and walls from crushed adults and/or blood stains caused by feeding. An odor may be present in a room with a severe infestation. Symptoms include bites found on exposed skin and skin irritation such as itchiness, inflammation and welts. If an allergic reaction occurs, see your health care provider.

Who should I call to identify bed bugs?

Use a sealable vial, small container, or plastic bag to capture bugs noticed near sleeping areas. Do not crush or damage the bugs. Seal and freeze for three hours. Send or deliver to our office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 7:30 a.m.and 4 p.m.

Multnomah County Vector Control and Code Enforcement
“Attention Bug Sample”
5235 North Columbia Blvd
Portland, OR 97236

How do I control bed bugs?

Bed bug infestations can be controlled by following an “integrated pest management” approach that uses multiple methods at the same time.

Prevention

Routinely inspect for and detect bed bugs.
Inspect traveler’s clothing and luggage; keep infested items out.
Seal exterior cracks and crevices, repair screens on doors and windows.

Sanitation

Launder bedding and clothing in hot water.
Frequently vacuum mattresses and premises; immediately seal vacuum bags and discard in an outdoor trash container.
Carefully scrub mattress seams and bed frames to remove bed bug adults and eggs.
Seal mattress or consider discarding mattresses in severe cases.

Insecticides

Insecticides can make people sick. Read more about using insecticides safely.
Select a licensed professional to apply insecticides for the control of bed bugs in all life stages (egg to adult). Read tips for selecting a pest professional.
Insecticides should only be applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and other precaution information should be provided to you in advance.
Bedding for infants should not be treated with residual insecticides, but may be treated with a short-lasting insecticide that is thoroughly dried and aired before use.

For group quarters

Properly train staff on how to prevent and reduce bed bug infestations and communicate relevant information to residents.
Create a detailed procedure for staff and residents to follow if they feel they have been exposed to bed bugs.