Watch CBS News

Reports Of Bedbugs Increase In Los Angeles County

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — Bedbugs are beginning their slow infiltration into Los Angeles.

Reports of the blood-sucking creatures have come in from all over the county, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Health officials began tracking reports last spring after seeing an increase from tenants, property owners and businesses. As many as 55 reports a month of the rice-sized brown pests have been confirmed.

The pests are "very good hitchhikers" that can migrate on luggage, clothing, beds, furniture and other items, L.A. County Public Health Director Jonathan E. Fielding told The Times.

The critters also reside in draperies, pillows and even electronics, and adult bugs can live more than a year without feeding.

(©2010 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.