Spring-break hazard: bedbug infestation

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With spring break coming up, travelers may want to make sure they don't pick up the souvenir no one plans to take home - bedbugs.

Bedbug cases have been increasing dramatically over the past three or four years, said Dawn Gouge, entomologist and associate professor at the University of Arizona.

"Pretty much everywhere where anyone goes on vacation is where you'll find bedbugs," said Gouge, noting that even travelers who stay at high-end resorts can be exposed to the parasites.

"I don't want to discourage anyone from having a fabulous spring break, but be vigilant," she said.

Gouge encouraged travelers to check the bed and headboard of hotel rooms and if bugs are found ask to be switched to another room. Make sure it is not the one right next door, since bedbugs can move through walls.

Even if you don't see any bugs, they could still be there. That's why Gouge recommends laundering everything you take with you as soon as you return.

Take only items that can be thrown in a dryer, she said. The heat of the dryer will kill any bugs.

Don't bring luggage into the house, Gouge warned, and if you forget, then don't take it to the bedroom.

And because bedbugs are an increasing problem for dormitories, students going home for break should make sure to wash everything immediately upon arrival, shoes included.

"The new sexually transmitted disease for college kids is bedbugs," Gouge said. Bedbugs crop up in places with large human density and as students have sleepovers and move around dorm rooms, bedbugs, which are expert stowaways, can spread easily, she said.

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Spring-break hazard: bedbug infestation

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