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Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are a growing concern through some communities throughout the county. Bed bugs are usually found where people sleep but are not limited to that space. They can hide in seams of mattresses, stuffed animals, backpacks, clothes and more. Other places can include, but are not limited to, dressers, bed frames, head boards, curtains, couches, cracks and crevices. 

Bed bugs bite people and can leave bite marks on their bodies. No known disease is spread through this pest. Some signs of bed bug infestation can include exoskeletons, bed bugs found in the folds of the mattress or box spring, rusty-colored blood spots due to their blood-filled fecal material or a sweet musty odor.

Bed bug bites usually do not pose a serious medical threat. The best way to treat a bite is to avoid scratching the area and apply antiseptic creams or lotions and take an antihistamine. 

Bed bug infestations may be contained and treated with physical and mechanical methods such as vacuuming, applying heat or steam, or freezing temperatures and continued sanitation efforts.  Many professionals use heat and steam to treat bed bug infestations.  A typical home dryer on high heat with a long run time may even be able to kill bed bugs in clothes and linens.  If the infestation cannot be controlled by physical and mechanical methods alone then insecticide spraying may need to be added to the treatment plan.

There are currently no health regulations dealing with bed bugs in New York State. However, there may be local housing or building codes in your area. Please contact your local housing or building inspector and view resources below.

Resources

 

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Chautauqua County Board of Health Meeting

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Free Animal Rabies Vaccination Clinic

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