What Should I Do If I Think I Have Bed Bugs?

• Students should go immediately to McKinley Health Center at 1109 South Lincoln Avenue (217.333.2701) for observation. While the bites cannot be definitively confirmed as "bed bug bites," and there is no blood test to confirm if bites are from a bed bug, it is important to rule out any other skin conditions. Give McKinley healthcare staff approval to alert University Housing and Public Health.
• Bed bugs are visible, so you should inspect your bedding. You may see a live insect, shed "skins" from the insects, or small blood stains. The presence of even a single bed bug is serious, and you should immediately report the problem to University Housing Facilities by calling 217.333.3450 if you live in University Housing, or by using the Housing web site (click on "Request Maintenance" located at the top of the page).
• Students living in private housing should contact their landlords immediately. A very aggressive approach is needed to eradicate this problem so you should never delay or hesitate to report your concerns.

This project is funded by the University of Illinois
Student Sustainability Committee and USDA NIFA.
Last Updated: 06/22/11