No bed bug infestations found on University of Ottawa campus, university says

The University of Ottawa says there are currently no confirmed cases of bed bugs and no bed bug infestations on campus, as social media reports suggest bed bugs at “multiple locations.”

Posts on Reddit and on social media suggested bed bugs had been found in libraries, dorms and study spaces at the university in Ottawa.

“The University of Ottawa takes bed bugs seriously and has established protocols to prevent and respond to the presence of bed bugs,” Jesse Robichaud, uOttawa spokesperson, said in an email to CTV News Ottawa Tuesday afternoon.

“We are aware of social media reports of bed bugs at multiple locations. Investigations of each location have shown there are no confirmed cases of bed bugs and no bed bug infestations. We know online speculation around bed bugs is concerning, and bed bug traps have been installed.”

Robichaud adds there are no cases of bed bugs in residences at uOttawa.

“In September, three cases of bed bugs were confirmed and resolved in residence units,” Robichaud said.

“Measures were taken to resolve the situations promptly. Mattresses were replaced and common areas were deep-cleaned. Follow-up treatments and monitoring equipment were deployed. No other cases of bed bugs have been reported in residences since that time.”

The University of Ottawa recommends students take the following steps to protect their spaces:

• Carefully check personal belongings (suitcases, bags, clothing, bedding, used furniture) before entering residence and again upon arrival. 
• Immediately wash all clothing and fabric items in hot water (60 °C) and dry them at a high temperature. 
• Store clean clothing in sealed bags or containers to avoid any recontamination. 
• Vacuum regularly (including mattresses, box springs, and baseboards) and dispose of the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic bag. 
• Promptly notify the Residence Life team in case of any doubt or observation of bed bugs.

“Bed bugs situations are rare, but they can happen when bed bugs are accidentally brought in through travel or personal belongings,” Robichaud said.

“When they occur in a University building, we implement measures to contain and resolve the case.”