The University of Nebraska-Omaha is taking steps to prevent bedbugs on campus. According to WOWT 6 News, campus officials are working with a local contractor to monitor rooms inside the Strauss Performing Arts Center after at least one student reported bed bugs.
A UNO spokesperson tells 6 News there was no confirmation of bed bugs on campus as of Saturday. In a statement Sunday evening, John Amend, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Facilities Management and Planning said: "If any positive results are detected, the appropriate procedures will be taken to treat the facilities and students, faculty, and staff who utilize the building will be informed."
UNO student Chase Reed told 6 News he's concerned about bed bugs spreading to other areas on campus. "If it is a problem they definitely need to take care of it right away."
According the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, adult bed bugs are roughly the size of an apple seed and are easy to see with the naked eye. They're brown or red in color and feed on blood. They often live itchy bite marks on humans.
They are usually found in bedding and mattresses, but they can b found almost anywhere, including furniture and even backpacks.
Removing bed bugs often takes the work of a trained professional using multiple pesticide treatments over a prolonged period of time.