Ontario is supporting local initiatives that are aimed at preventing and managing infestations of bed bugs.

The province’s 36 public health units will be able to apply for funding to support bed bug-related programs that emphasize coordination with other local services, education and awareness and/or provide supports to vulnerable populations.  A total of $5 million will be invested by the province to support these programs.

In addition, a new public education website featuring tools has been launched to give Ontarians a one-stop-shop to get accurate information and simple, easy-to-use tips to combat infestations.  The province is also distributing a guide, An Integrated Pest Management Program for Managing Bed Bugs, to stakeholders on how to identify bed bug infestations, perform inspections properly, prepare living areas for treatment and carry out pest treatments.

The province and the public health units are also working to develop better ways to assess bed bug activity and infestations.

Today’s announcement responds to recommendations from a Bed Bug Summit hosted by MPP Mike Colle on September 29, 2010.    

• Toronto Public Health has seen a dramatic increase in infestation reports – from 46 in 2003 to more than 1,500 in 2009.
• Adult bed bugs are 3mm – 5mm in size – about the size and shape of an apple seed – and a reddish brown color.

• Bed Bug Initiatives
• For information on bed bugs and how to prevent or get rid of them, see www.bedbugsinfo.ca.