Avoiding Bed Bugs
Bedbugs are small non-flying insects that can spread by travelling on personal items, luggage and clothes. They feed on the blood of animals, and tend to bite when a person is asleep or still for a long time. As they often hide in the day, they may not be easily noticed.
Bedbug bites typically cause small red areas of swelling on the skin that are intensely itchy. Without treatment, these bites tend to take a few weeks to heal.
Here are some tips to avoid bedbugs when travelling:
- Examine the bed for any bedbugs
- Small black spots may be bedbug excrement
- Bedbug eggs are tiny (the size of a pinhead) and whitish in colour
- Using your hands to sweep the bedding or press on the mattress is safe as bedbugs do not bite so quickly
- Examine the bed for any bedbugs
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- Place luggage away from the bed, and avoid placing it directly on the floor
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- Avoid storing your clothes in the drawers
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- Check hotel reviews for any previous cases of bedbugs
If you find any bedbugs on your items:
- Wash your clothing in hot water at 60 degrees Celsius
- Place your items in a dryer at 60 degrees Celsius
- Seal your belongings in a plastic bag
- Vacuum your luggage using a vacuum cleaner with a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter to remove bedbugs – dispose the vacuum debris in a tightly sealed bag
By staying vigilant, inspecting your accommodations, and taking proactive steps to protect your belongings, you can minimize the risk of bedbugs and enjoy a worry-free trip.