Bed Bug Testing

Cinnaminson, New Jersey, August 7, 2023

Recently, several gates were temporarily closed at the Honolulu International Airport after the discovery of bed bugs. Multiple media outlets picked up the story and reported on the infestation and the planned efforts to eradicate the insects. Fortunately, no flights were impacted.

Bed bugs are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of people and animals, usually while they sleep. They are experts at hiding, which can make them difficult to find. The presence of bed bugs can be an ongoing annoyance because they often cause itching and loss of sleep for people living or working in, or visiting, an infested property. Some people may also suffer allergic reactions caused by their presence.

“As this case illustrates, bed bug infestations can take place almost anywhere, even at airports,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “In recent years, there have been numerous high-profile cases of bed bug infestations that have garnered the public’s attention. These infestations have taken place in everything from cruise ships and fancy hotels to trains.”

To help identify the presence of bed bugs, and to confirm the effectiveness of eradication and cleaning efforts, EMSL Analytical offers highly sensitive DNA-based laboratory testing techniques and easy-to-use sample collection kits. Testing can also be used to assist in identifying a minor bed bug situation, so it can be effectively treated, before it becomes an all-out infestation. Proactive efforts could prevent the temporary closure of a business and all the negative public relations that are so frequently associated with the discovery of bed bugs.

EMSL sponsored an educational video about bed bugs a few years ago that can still be seen at: https://youtu.be/gfAt_UAgNqA

To learn more about testing for bed bugs or other indoor environmental quality (IEQ) services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com. To access bed bug or other IEQ test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.