Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small, wingless insects with flat, reddish-brown bodies. They feed on the blood of humans and other hosts and are most active at night. Bed bugs often hide in cracks and crevices around beds, furniture, luggage, backpacks, clothing, boxes, and other personal items.

About Bed Bugs

Bed bugs can be transported on luggage, clothing, backpacks, bags, boxes, and furniture. They can be found in many types of spaces and are not a sign that an area is dirty or poorly maintained.

Bed bugs are not known to transmit disease. However, bites may cause itching, irritation, loss of sleep, or allergic reactions in some people. If you are concerned about possible bed bug bites, contact the Student Health and Wellness Center or your primary care provider.

How to Help Prevent Bed Bugs

Carefully inspect your residence before moving in and check items before bringing them into your room or apartment. Inspect luggage, clothing, backpacks, bags, boxes, and furniture before bringing them inside.

When traveling, inspect the room where you are staying and check your belongings before returning to campus. Pay close attention to mattress seams, box springs, headboards, wall hangings, and drawers near joints and handles. Look for dark spots, stains, tiny white eggs, yellow casings, or live insects.

Residence hall rooms are spot checked throughout the semester to help identify and address potential concerns. For questions, contact the Public Health Program Manager at askrms@unt.edu.

Report Bed Bugs in a Residence Hall

If you find evidence of bed bugs in a residence hall, notify the front desk immediately. The Hall Director will be notified, and pest control treatment will begin as soon as possible.

Do not attempt to treat bed bugs on your own. The residence hall will provide instructions on next steps for treating personal items.

Report Bed Bugs in Other Campus Spaces

If you find evidence of bed bugs in any campus space, such as a classroom, laboratory, office, or common area, contact Facilities Work Control at 940-565-2700 or submit a  Service Request.

Before entering your residence, clean and inspect any clothing, bags, or personal items that may have been exposed.