Bedbugs: advice for nurses on risk and what to advise patients

How to recognise bedbug bites, advise patients on treatment and preventing further infestation, and how to reduce your risk of exposure to bedbugs

Bedbugs (cimex lectularius) are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of people and animals while they are sleeping.

Reddish-brown in colour and wingless, they are generally between 1-7mm in length, and often live in furniture or bedding. They are found around the world, including the UK.

Are bedbug infestations on the rise?

The media has been filled with stories about bedbug outbreaks after initial reports about rocketing numbers of infestations in Paris. This has prompted suggestions that there are growing numbers in London and other UK locations.