NORTH BRUNSWICK — There were no new signs of bedbugs found in the school district as of three weeks ago.
More than 1 million square feet of space was inspected during spring break by Helga and Hagar, two dogs from Viking Pest Control, Superintendent of Schools Brian Zychowski announced at the April 25 Board of Education meeting.
“There are no live bedbugs. There is no infestation in any of our schools,” he said.
One bedbug had initially been discovered on a student at John Adams Elementary School and on a desk at Linwood Middle School in February. During the week of March 5, a specialized trained beagle was brought to the schools to track the scent of any bedbugs. Reports showed no visual signs and no infestation at either school.
“Although the news is good, we can’t let our guard down. We have to remain diligent and vigilant,” Zychowski said.
Any student who thinks there may be an issue at home may confidentially contact a school staff member for assistance. Teachers and nurses are also on alert for rashes from bites, as well as the bedbugs themselves.
Parents can contact the county Board of Health or their landlords if they suspect bedbugs. People who frequent public places and travel a lot are more likely to transfer the pests, officials said.
For more information, visit the district’s website at www.nbtschools.org. Contact Jennifer Amato at [email protected].