How does the sanitary‑epidemiological service's treatment for bedbugs proceed?

How does the sanitary‑epidemiological service's treatment for bedbugs proceed? - briefly

The sanitary‑epidemiological authority conducts an inspection to verify a bed‑bug infestation, issues a formal order for licensed exterminators to apply approved insecticides or heat treatment, and follows up with a verification visit to confirm eradication.

How does the sanitary‑epidemiological service's treatment for bedbugs proceed? - in detail

The sanitary‑epidemiological authority initiates a bedbug control operation after receiving a formal complaint or notification. An authorized specialist arrives at the premises to verify the presence of Cimex lectularius through visual inspection, use of detection devices, and collection of specimens for laboratory confirmation.

Once infestation is confirmed, the specialist prepares a written action plan. The plan outlines the affected zones, the severity rating, and the selected eradication methods. It also specifies protective measures for occupants, pets, and surrounding environment, and includes a timeline for each stage.

The execution phase comprises several coordinated steps:

• Pre‑treatment preparation

  • Remove clutter and wash all linens, clothing, and upholstery at temperatures ≥ 60 °C.
  • Seal infested items in labeled bags for later processing.
  • Install protective covers on mattresses and box springs.
  • Advise residents to vacate the area if heat or fumigation is planned.

• Primary eradication

  • Apply approved insecticide formulations (pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, or desiccants) using calibrated sprayers, ensuring coverage of cracks, seams, and hidden harborage sites.
  • Conduct whole‑room heat treatment, raising ambient temperature to 50–55 °C for a minimum of four hours, monitored by calibrated sensors.
  • Deploy portable steam generators on furniture and baseboards where chemical use is restricted.

• Secondary measures

  • Install interceptors under legs of beds and furniture to capture emerging insects.
  • Perform targeted vacuuming of treated surfaces after the insecticide dries, disposing of the collected material in sealed containers.
  • Apply residual dusts in wall voids and behind wall panels for long‑term protection.

• Post‑treatment verification

  • Conduct a follow‑up inspection 7–10 days after the initial application to detect surviving specimens.
  • Repeat a secondary treatment cycle if live insects are observed, focusing on missed harborage points.
  • Issue a final certification report documenting all actions, chemicals used, temperatures reached, and the date of clearance.

Throughout the process, the service records each activity in a centralized log, maintains compliance with national sanitary‑epidemiological regulations, and provides occupants with written guidance on preventive practices to avoid re‑infestation.