Annie’s Mailbox: Prevent another bug transmission

Dear Annie: For the past 10 summers, “Dan and Kelly” have stopped at our house on the way to visit their relatives up north. It’s a long trip, so they often need to stop at a motel before reaching our place. Sometimes they stay with us overnight, and other times, it can be as long as five days.

My husband and I sleep in different bedrooms. He gave up his bed for Dan and Kelly. Two weeks after their last visit, he was eaten up with bug bites, even though the sheets had been washed. We inspected and, sure enough, found bedbugs. We had to have a pest control company spray our entire house, and we took comforters, blankets and pillows to the local laundry since they were too big for my machines. Thankfully, we haven’t had any repeats, but the bill was nearly $500.

Dan and Kelly are coming through again this summer. How can we make sure this won’t happen again? We never mentioned the bugs to them (can you say “awkward”?), nor did they say a word to us, even though they must have taken those bugs with them to their relatives. I am not worried about the money, although I don’t want a repeat of that bill. The main thing is, I don’t want any more bedbugs. How can we approach this with them? Or do we? – Itching in Ky.

Dear Itching: Your letter made us itch. Bedbugs have become an epidemic lately, and they are a particular problem in hotels, motels, apartment buildings, condominiums and anywhere large numbers of people share living space. Fortunately, most of these places have taken great pains to see that bedbugs are no longer an issue, but you should not assume that Dan and Kelly are bug free. When they call to say they’re headed your way, tell them, “You know, we had a bedbug problem several months ago and just want to be sure you are careful when you travel.” Also, be sure to inspect the bed after they leave (and before you sleep on it).