It’s a problem that is plaguing all of North America — bedbugs.
Our area is not exempt — the pests have recently been found in some housing units in Kincardine and Port Elgin.
Susan Earle — the Manager of Housing Services in Bruce County — says her department is working to eradicate the problem.
While bedbugs are not entirely choosy about where they decide to relocate – Earle says there is really nothing to panic about.
She says bedbugs are nothing more than a nuisance and do not carry disease.
However, there is a stigma attached to bedbugs that may stop those with an infestation from telling their landlord about it.
Earle says its important to let your landlord know in order to prevent the bedbugs from settling in another unit in your building if you happen to live in an apartment.
There have been instances of people picking up bedbugs at the movie theatre – the bugs simply hitch a ride on your clothing and get off on your bed or other pieces of furniture.
Earle is quick to point out that bedbugs are not an indication of a cleanliness issue – adding bedbugs have been found everywhere from your typical household to expensive hotels all over the world.
Earle says her department is working with a local exterminator to deal with any infestations in their properties.
If you suspect you might have bedbugs – she suggest you simply call an exterminator.
