On this page
Short answer What bed bug bites look like Other signs of bed bugs What to do first Treating the bites Sleep and stress When to get help Common questions from students Common questions Related questions SourcesBed bugs are not known to spread diseases to people, but their bites can itch, disturb sleep and, if scratched, get infected.
If you think you have them, tell your RA or housing office right away, and avoid moving things to other rooms.
What bed bug bites look like
The CDC says bites look like mosquito or flea bites: small, red, itchy bumps that may be in a line or random. Many people do not notice the bite when it happens, and marks can take from one day to as long as 14 days to appear. Bites on the face, neck, arms and hands after sleeping are a clue. See bed bug vs mosquito bites.
Other signs of bed bugs
- Small rusty or dark spots on sheets or the mattress
- Tiny shed skins or white eggs near seams
- A musty odor in heavy infestations
- Live bugs in mattress seams, bed frames and behind headboards
What to do first
- Tell your RA or housing office in writing, and take photos
- Do not move your bedding or belongings into another room or friend's place
- Wash and dry clothes and linens on high heat
- Keep luggage off the bed and floor until it is checked
- Follow housing's treatment plan
Treating the bites
Bites usually do not need medical treatment. Wash with soap and water, use an itch cream as directed on the label, and avoid scratching. See a clinician if you see signs of infection such as pus, spreading redness or fever, or signs of an allergic reaction.
Sleep and stress
Itching and worry can cost you sleep. A clean, bug-free space helps most. Ask housing about a temporary move if the problem continues.
When to get help
Call 911 for trouble breathing, a swollen face or throat, or hives all over after bites. Go to student health for skin infection signs, or for bites that keep spreading or do not heal.
If you are not sure what you have, our AI doctor asks a few questions and sends you a care note you can bring to student health.
Common questions from students
Can bed bugs live in my backpack? They can travel in bags and clothing.
Do bed bugs mean my dorm is dirty? No. They spread by travel and can show up anywhere.
Can bed bugs spread diseases? The CDC says they are not known to spread diseases.
How long do bites take to show? From a day to up to 14 days.
Who pays for treatment? Housing usually handles it. Ask your housing office.
Common questions
Do bed bugs in a dorm make you sick?
Bed bugs are not known to spread diseases to people, but their bites can itch, disturb sleep and, if scratched, get infected. If you think you have them, tell your RA or housing office right away, and avoid moving things to other rooms.
Can bed bugs live in my backpack?
They can travel in bags and clothing.
Do bed bugs mean my dorm is dirty?
No. They spread by travel and can show up anywhere.
Can bed bugs spread diseases?
The CDC says they are not known to spread diseases.
How long do bites take to show?
From a day to up to 14 days.
Who pays for treatment?
Housing usually handles it. Ask your housing office.