Newton Independent
Sue Irving, director of Jasper County Environmental Health, sent notice to area media on Tuesday that Newton and Jasper County are seeing an uptick in reports of bed bug infestations around the area.
Coincendentally, a report on the front page of the DM Register today states that residents of two Des Moines apartment buildings have filed suit over management's lack of action to battle bed bug infestations in the buildings.
In her alert to area media, Irving says bed bugs are not a situation to take lightly.
"The good news is bed bugs do not transmit disease," she said. "The bad news is they appear to be gaining resistance against many chemical treatments. Even licensed exterminators have to apply multiple treatments on a timely schedule. This is one bug that requires the professionals. Do-it-yourself treatments may increase chemical resistance in your infestation."
Irving provided some information about bed bugs and how area residents can spot potential infestations:
- Bed bugs can survive six to nine months without eating
- Human blood is their meal preference
- Extreme cold (below 30 degrees F) or extreme heat (above 130 degrees F) will kill them
- They tend to be most active between midnight and 3 a.m.
- Bites may cause welts on the skin within 24 to 48 hours
- Small blood stains or dark brown spots may appear on bedding
- Bed bugs hide in small cracks and crevaces during daylight hours
The environmental health director says her department has no regulatory authority over bed bugs and can provide no financial assistance to those seeking to battle an infestation.
"The stigma, liability and cost can appear to be overwhelming, but bed bugs do not go away without treatment," she said. "You can contain the cost of treatment and prevent the spread only if you stop to think, recognize the signs, ask questions and treat the infestation immediately.
"Please remember bed bugs are an insect and absolutely anyone can get them. The true character of good citizenship and good landlords is to step up and stop the bugs. Do not pass them on. Call an extermiantor or your building maintenance management if you suspect a problem."
The Iowa Department of Public Health offers information on bed bugs here.
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