As confirmed by the professionals, we do not have an epidemic, however, we are taking this extremely seriously. We would like to state that no bed bugs have been found or suspected in any other building within the district other than Welty Middle School. NPCSD wants to assure you that we have been working with the New Philadelphia Health Department from the moment we were aware of a potential bedbug situation. We have had a bed bug detecting dog and have had a professional exterminator spray every room, locker, and hallway of Welty Middle School. Professionals have never found one bedbug. However, district employees have found a couple of isolated bed bugs. We will continue to monitor the situation and consult with public health and pest control professionals to eliminate any bed bugs in the building and to minimize the potential for future bed bug activity in the school.
Although bed bugs are a nuisance, they have not been known to spread disease. Anyone who comes in direct contact with bed bugs or their eggs can unknowingly carry them into their home or workplace. They are easily spread by moving beds, furniture, luggage, or clothing from one location to another.
If you have any questions regarding bed bugs or our response efforts, please feel free to contact the Principal or School Nurse. Detailed information on bed bugs and appropriate control measures can be obtained on the Board of Health’s website (www.ccbh.net) and the Cuyahoga County Bed Bug Task Force’s website (www.cuyahogabedbugs.org). Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Website Links
USEPA – Bed Bugs
USEPA Registered Bed Bug Product Search Tool
Centers For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) – Bed Bug FAQs
Central Ohio Bed Bug Task Force
Bed Bug Central
National Pest Management Association
Exterminator’s Reports
