Dear resident:
My name is Ray Haghighipour. I work for First Nations Health Authority, and I am the public health inspector for Nisga’a Nation. I would like to bring to your attention that some homes in Nisga’a communities are currently experiencing bed bug infestation. I am working closely with Nisga’a Valley Health Authority and village governments to address the problem and to eradicate infestation in homes and other buildings.
Bed bugs are a nuisance. They are not known to cause or spread disease. Bed bugs spread through contact and can be carried in luggage or on clothing and can become a problem in all sorts of residences regardless of hygiene and living conditions.
I am reaching out to you because we need your help to eradicate bed bugs in your community. Eradication of bed bugs requires a collaborative effort between residents, village government, public health officials, and professional exterminators. I urge you to report bed bug issues immediately, as proactive, timely treatment is essential to prevent widespread infestation.
Urgent Actions for Residents
- Report Immediately: Inform health center or housing department as soon as bed bugs are suspected, rather than attempting to treat them alone.
- Cooperate with Professionals: Follow professional exterminator’s preparation instructions exactly, which often include cleaning, vacuuming, and moving furniture.
- Prepare Your Home:
- Laundry: Wash all clothing and bedding in hot water and dry on high heat.
- Declutter: Remove items from closets and under beds to allow for proper inspection and treatment.
- Vacuuming: Vacuum, including mattress seams and furniture, and immediately seal the vacuum bag in a plastic bag for disposal outside.
- Seal Items: Use mattress covers to prevent bugs from hiding in mattresses and to trap existing ones.
- Prevent Spreading: Do not move furniture or belongings out of an infested room, as this can spread the infestation to other areas.
- Limit Visits: Do not visit any homes if you have bed bugs at home. Wait until your home has been treated.
Key Tips for Success
- No Self-Treatment: Do not rely on DIY methods, as they often fail and can be detrimental to your health due to exposure to toxic chemicals. Children and the elderly are at higher risk of suffering from self-treatment.
- Persistence: Eradication can be a long process, often requiring multiple treatments and continued vigilance.
Thank you in advance and please do not hesitate to contact me or your Cultural and Community Health Representative if you have any questions or concerns.
Respectfully,
Ray Haghighipour, CPHI(C)
Environmental Health Officer
First Nations Health Authority
Cell: 250-615-6435
Fax: 250-615-5809
Bedbug Management Protocols for Health Care Workers