Bed bugs found in King's College Hospital postnatal ward Published duration 14 May 2019

image copyright PA image caption A number of beds in the postnatal unit at King's College Hospital are being treated for bed bugs

Staff working in a maternity ward are having to wear protective clothing after bed bugs were found on the unit.

King's College Hospital in Denmark Hill, south London, said a number of beds were being treated for the creatures.

A spokesperson said women were still being admitted on the postnatal ward but are being informed about the issue. Visiting hours have also been reduced.

The 5mm-long bugs are not dangerous but can cause itchy red bite marks.

The hospital said staff were wearing "appropriate protective clothing" while deep cleaning is carried out on the ward.

It said women being discharged from the unit were being given "advice and guidance".

Bed bugs

media caption The parasites that invaded the Palace of Westminster

The creatures can hide in many places, including on bed frames, mattresses, clothing, furniture, behind pictures and under loose wallpaper. Signs of them include:

Bites often on areas exposed while sleeping like the face, neck and arms

Spots of blood on bedding from the bites or from squashing a bedbug

Small brown spots on bedding or furniture

Ways to treat bites include:

Putting something cool, like a clean, damp cloth on the affected area to help with the itching and any swelling

Keeping the affected area clean

Not scratching the bites to avoid getting an infection

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NHS