1. Public Health
  2. Environmental Health
  3. Pests
  4. Bed Bugs

Bed Bugs

bed bug

We provide education and advice on controlling bed bugs and investigate reports of bed bug infestations in hotels/motels and apartment and rental units.

What are Bed Bugs and Why are they a Problem?

  • Bed bugs are small, flat insects that come out at night and feed on the blood of people and animals while they sleep.   
  • They are about the size of an apple seed, with rusty red colored bodies. They cannot fly or jump.
  • Bed bug bites are not known to spread disease.
  • Bites can become swollen and itchy and too much scratching may cause infections.
  • Bed bugs often hide in bedding and mattresses, as well as in cracks and crevices in walls and furniture.
  • Bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene or cleanliness.

How Do Bed Bugs Spread?

Bed bugs move from place to place on your belongings and body. They can hide in the seams and folds of luggage, clothes, bedding and furniture. They can also be found on second-hand furniture and clothing.

What are the Signs of Bed Bugs?

  • Dark spots on walls, mattresses and other places where they hide.
  • Seeing bed bug exoskeletons after molting.  

How Do You Get Rid of Bed Bugs?

It is hard to get rid of bed bugs. If you think you have bed bugs:

  • The best way to get rid of bed bugs is to have a professional pest control company familiar with treating bed bugs do it. Heat treatment combined with chemical use is the most effective way to control bed bugs.

How Do I Report a Bed Bug Problem?

Apartments & Rental Units

If the problem is not addressed by your landlord, call your local building inspector. For the City of Madison: (608) 266-4551.

If there is no Building Inspector in your area, call us: (608) 242-6515.

Hotels & Motels

Call us: (608) 242-6515

Owner Occupied Home

Contact a Pest Control Company familiar with treating bed bugs.

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