Bed bugs are a big problem! The extermination company, Orkin, has been releasing a bed bug report every year lately that lists the top 50 cities in the U.S. for bed bugs; Florida cities always make the list.
That’s troubling news considering how many tourists the state draws. There’s a good chance you could be at risk for bed bug bites any time you check into a resort, hotel, or motel and now, even private properties like those available through AirB&B and similar services.
There are some steps you can take to protect yourself from bed bug bites, but if you forget to inspect your hotel room or find yourself with bites anyway, here’s what to do.
What To Do If You Have Been Bitten By Bed Bugs
If you have been bitten by bed bugs at a Florida hotel, motel, resort, etc. you’ll want to document it. Upon discovery of the bugs or the bites, you should:
- Take Pictures of Your Room. Pay special attention to areas where bed bugs tend to live such as sheets and bedding, pillows, and carpeting. Look for areas of dust; that’s what bed bugs sometimes look like to the naked eye.
- Take Pictures of the Bites. If you have been bitten definitely get clear close-up and distance shots of the bites. Take them over several days as the bites develop and change.
- Notify the Hotel. If you think there are bed bugs in your room, let the hotel know right away. If you don’t discover bites until after you check out, call the hotel and tell them anyway. The hotel should have the room inspected and a report compiled. Ask for a copy of the report for your records.
- See a Doctor. Getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial to your recovery. Retain copies of the diagnosis as well as any medications that have been prescribed (Rx or OTC). Do this for every doctor you see whether they are a family practice, dermatologist, allergist or mental health professional.
- Contact the County Health Department. You should let the county health department know when and where you were been bitten. They will do an inspection and make their own report. Ask for a copy of this report as well.
- Meet with a Florida Bed Bug Lawyer. If you have suffered bed bug bites in a Florida hotel, motel or the like, contact The Beregovich Law Firm at (800) 631-9009 or by emailing us at [email protected] to arrange a free, no obligation consultation of your situation.
