At one time, bedbugs were a major problem. It wasn't unusual for youngsters to go to school with the red marks created by bedbug bites.

They were as hated as feared as cockroaches.Until now, bedbugs have become an almost forgotten household pest - at least locally. New major outbreaks have been reported in New York, Philadelphia, and many other cities. The bugs have made news on some college campuses, in hotels, and even among travelers.So severe is the problem that a Congressional Bed Bug Forum will take place on Thursday, November 18, at the Capitol Visitor Center in Washington D.C.. The Forum will focus on the federal government's response to the bed bug resurgence and ways in which it can more effectively help assist Americans in managing this pest.Fortunately, we know of no local infestations. Hopefully we can keep it that way.Bedbugs travel on luggage, clothing, and can even be transported on pets. Often you don't know you have them until you wake up with the red blotches.The only way to get rid of them, according to experts, is through a professional exterminator.Some cities are having their worst bedbug infestations in many years. As a result, if traveling and especially if staying in motels, keep your luggage on the luggage rack (not bed or floor); first carefully check to see the luggage rack is free of pests (look at it from top to bottom, and under the straps). Check the mattress, headboard, frame and pictures (as much as possible).When you arrive home, wash your clothing as quickly as possible and watch carefully for signs of the dreaded insects.Even the Mayo Clinic has an updated warning on bedbugs. It states:"Bedbugs have feasted on sleeping humans for thousands of years. After World War II, they were eradicated from most developed nations with the use of DDT. This pesticide has since been banned because it's so toxic to the environment."Spurred perhaps by increases in international travel, bedbugs are becoming a problem once again. The risk of encountering bedbugs increases if you spend time in places with high turnovers of night-time guests - such as hotels, hospitals or homeless shelters."Bedbugs are reddish brown, oval and flat, about the size of an apple seed. During the day, they hide in the cracks and crevices of beds, box springs, headboards and bed frames. It's a daunting task to eliminate bedbugs from your home. Professional help is recommended."If bedbugs do turn up in your abode, get professional help quickly. Otherwise, you're likely - unknowingly - to help them spread to friends, co-workers, relatives, and anyone else with whom you come into contact.By Ron Gowerrgower@tnonline.com