Frequently Asked Questions

Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed, are brown with a flat, oval-shaped body and can be smelly, emitting a "musty-sweetish" odor produced through glands on the lower side of the body. Bed bugs are considered a public health pest and are not known to transmit or spread disease. Bed Bug Fact Sheet (PDF)

Bed bugs have not been shown to transmit diseases and are not considered a public health hazard. Bed bugs can be an annoyance because their presence may cause itching and loss of sleep. In some instances, the itching can lead to excessive scratching which may increase the chance of a secondary skin infection.

Bed bugs range from 1mm to 7mm long (less than 1/4 of an inch - roughly the size of Lincoln's head on a penny), are wingless, and have a flat head and a flat, oval body. Young bed bugs are yellow-white in color and change to a light to reddish brown as they mature. For more information and pictures you can visit: Colorado State University Extension website. You can also contact an entomologist for help identifying bed bugs.

One of the easiest ways to identify a bed bug infestation is by the tell-tale bite marks on the face, neck, arms, hands, or any other body parts. However, these bite marks may take as long as 14 days to develop. Other signs of bed bugs may include the presence of bed bug exoskeletons, actual bed bugs in the fold of mattresses and sheets, rusty-colored blood spots on bedding and or a sweet musty odor.

Bed bugs bites have different effects on every person. When a bed bug feeds on the blood of a person or animal, saliva is injected into the bite wound, which contains proteins that may cause some form of an allergic response. Some people show no signs of bed bug bites, some people have small bite marks, and others have allergic reactions. However, most people experience some level of inflammation, swelling, reddening, and itchiness at the bite site. Bed bug bites are not considered dangerous, but severe allergic reactions may require medical attention. Scratching bed bug bites may lead to secondary skin infections as well.

If you suspect that you have an infestation, contact your landlord or professional pest control company that is experienced with treating bed bugs. Getting rid of a bed bug infestation involves a combination of cleaning, room-modification, and insecticide administration by a knowledgeable, licensed pest control operator. Bed bug infestations are commonly treated with insecticides containing "pyrethrins". All pesticides should be applied per the label's instructions and treat areas where bed bugs are known to live. Wash all draperies, bedding and clothing in hot water and place them in a hot dryer for at least 20 minutes. Bed bugs and their eggs can be vacuumed up with a nozzle attachment. Vacuum all the crevices on mattresses, bed frames, baseboards and any objects close to the bed. Steam clean and vacuum carpets. Vacuum daily and be sure to immediately empty your vacuum in an outside trash can. Be vigilant and conduct regular inspections.

Bed bugs can be difficult to get rid of and bed bug control usually requires multiple visits by a licensed pest control operator and diligence on the part of those who are experiencing the infestation.

It is best to read your lease first, as it may contain information as to who is responsible for treating pests. If your land lord is responsible, contact your land lord. If you are responsible, contact a licensed pest control company that is experienced with treating bed bugs. Regardless of who is responsible, getting rid of a bed bug infestation involves a combination of cleaning, room-modification, and insecticide administration.

San Luis Valley Environmental Health Departments do not have a Housing Ordinance and do not have legal authority over private property including rental properties. Public Health can document a bed bug problem and provide educational resources on how to prevent and eliminate a bed bug infestation, but is not able to mandate (require) action by a landlord. If you are renting, it is important to thoroughly read your lease to identify who is responsible for pest control. SLV Environmental Health Departments cannot provide legal services. For further legal questions, you can contact Colorado Legal Services at 303-837-1313.

Unfortunately, San Luis Valley Health Departments cannot recommend a pest control company. You can find many companies in the Yellow Pages or through an internet search. The Colorado Department of Agriculture at 303-239-4140 can also provide a list of licensed pest control operators.

Use luggage racks to hold your luggage, instead of setting it on the bed or on the floor. Avoid unpacking your clothes into hotel dresser drawers. Keep your clothes in your luggage (on a luggage rack) or hang clothes in the closet. Check the mattress and the headboard before sleeping. Once you return home, unpack directly into the washing machine, using hot water followed by drying items in a hot dryer for at least 20 minutes. Thoroughly inspect your luggage for any signs of bed bugs.