The health district was also called to work with the family.
The school district is trying to avoid falling victim to what has become an infestation across the country.
Bed bugs are a big concern for health officials, travel industries officials and housing authorities, such as Springfield Metropolitan Housing. After an infestation of the blood sucking bugs at SMHA’s Cole Manor last summer, the housing authority spent more than $80,000 in pest control services. On May 17 a resident of SMHA’s Sherman Courts apartments reported her family has been forced from their home because of the pests.
While bed bugs are not believed to spread disease, the district will be aggressive about preventing any spread, Fish said.
“If we have an incident we will send letters home to parents that day,” she said.
If the discovery is late in the day the district would send a letter home the following day, she added.
Parents can do their part by washing their children’s clothing in hot water, vacuuming regularly — especially mattresses — and purchasing plastic mattress covers.
Information about bed bugs, prevention and treatment can be found at the Springfield City Schools Website, www.spr.k12.oh.us, as well at the Clark County Combined Health District site, www.ccchd.com.
Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0347 or kmori@coxohio.com.
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