After the address of a bed bug infestation in early October in Building C, also known as the Administration Building or the “beehive,” the Independent investigated further into the matter and would like to remind the university community ways individuals can take caution to effectively stay clear of bed bugs.
Background Context
The first email, sent on October 3, said that bed bugs “were reported in an isolated section of the C Building” on the main campus the day prior and that a team of professionals had also come to inspect the building the day prior. The second email, sent on October 4, said that Building C had been cleared of the infestation. The Independent spoke with facilities management for further details as well as staff and students on how they felt about the university’s response.
“The pests were only found on one item in one cubicle on one floor in the C building,” said Josh Sumner, Executive Director of Facilities Management.
Willie E. Correa, Assistant Director of Student Success and Retention Department, said the bugs were first discovered on October 1, which was two days before the official university announcement. Correa stated that the staff was emailed procedures for the bugs, and that they have returned to office.
“I feel like, with what I’ve heard in other universities, they should try a little harder,” said Ayah Obeidallah, a senior and an elementary education major. “For example, taking a day out of the week [to close the university], to clean up, or have more people come and see where the bugs are coming from.”
The company conducting the inspection, Smithereen, has been working with NEIU since 1999. In their report detailing their inspection, no bed bugs were found, and spray was applied to the following areas on the affected floor: the men’s bathroom, women’s bathroom, all 5th floor chairs, all baseboards, and reception. No new instances of bed bugs have been reported since.
Moving Forward
See the attached infographic about ways to identify bed bugs. Once spotted, EPA recommends non-chemical methods of killing bed bugs, which include heat treatment, cold treatment, and steam cleaners. Bed bug interceptor traps can also be homemade or bought and placed under legs of furniture to keep them from climbing higher and spreading around. Depending on the size and seriousness, another option is to hire pest management services.
