Bedbugs

What are they exactly?


Photo of a bedbug


Photo of a bedbug infestation


Photo of bedbug bites on the back.

Bedbugs are small wingless insects, visible to the naked eye. Oval-shaped and brown, they sort of look like smashed apple seeds. They usually come out at night, which is when they are active, and are generally found along the seams of mattresses. Bedbugs do bite, feeding off the blood of people while they sleep. They are also known to reproduce and spread at a very fast rate if not quickly dealt with. Over the past few years, the number of cases of bedbugs has multiplied throughout Québec as well as worldwide. The main cause of this proliferation is a rise in the number of people travelling (moving, vacationing, etc.).

Health impacts

Bedbugs are not vectors (carriers) of any diseases. The main risk they pose to people’s health is associated with their bites, which are sometimes present in large numbers. Multiple bites are often extremely itchy and can have a significant impact on quality of life, notably due to their causing sleep disturbances, stress, anxiety and even social isolation in some cases.

How can bedbugs be prevented?

Steps you can take to prevent a bedbug infestation:

  • Avoid accumulating or hoarding items and leaving them lying around, as this creates possible hiding places for bedbugs.
  • Try not to bring used mattresses or second-hand upholstered furniture into your home.
  • If buying second-hand furniture that is not upholstered, make sure to thoroughly vacuum each piece and wash it with soap and hot water before bringing it home.
  • For used clothing and fabric, put these into the washer or dryer straightaway, at a high temperature, for at least 30 minutes.
  • Items that cannot be put in the washer or dryer can be placed in the freezer (at -18°C) or outdoors for at least three and a half days, or treated with hot steam.
  • When you come back from a trip, immediately wash the inside of your suitcases with hot water.

Taking quick action is key in the event of an infestation!

The fear of being identified as the person responsible for a bedbug infestation often dissuades people from reporting the presence of these insects in their home. This, unfortunately, only exacerbates the problem. Having said this, bedbugs are not picky and will settle in anywhere they can. No one should be accused or feel ashamed, as we are all at risk! The important thing is to act as quickly as possible

If you think there are bedbugs in your home, contact your housing manager ASAP.

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