(October 1, 2015 – TOPEKA, KS) Two upholstered chairs at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library have shown evidence of bed bugs on them and have been removed from the building. Steps are being taken to determine the extent of the introduction of the pests to the library. The Shawnee County Health Agency has been notified, and the library is working with the agency to post information about the issue.
Misty Kruger, Public Information, Shawnee County Health Agency, stressed that bed bugs are more of a “health nuisance, not a health risk.”
“We have been contacted by the library regarding bedbugs and they are working to address them,” said Kruger. “They have taken the necessary steps at this time, and we remind residents that bedbugs are not known to carry disease. Bedbugs are considered a public health annoyance and people should most be concerned about an allergic reaction or a secondary infection from itching the bite sites.”
The library has also conferred with other libraries on their process of managing and treatments. Bed bugs are a growing problem in public buildings around the United States due to global travelers. (source: www.cdc.gov)
The library contacted Schendel Pest Services, who regularly services the library, for an onsite inspection and treatment of all library facilities and vehicles. The Schendel inspection will also include the use of “Scout,” a specially trained bedbug canine to do the sniff test for bugs.
“The Library is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all who visit,” said Gina Millsap, library CEO. “As an organization committed to free access to information and education, we will use this as an opportunity to not only address this problem but to create awareness of what is a widespread challenge in communities all over the U.S.”
