LAS VEGAS – Bed bugs have been found in rooms at four Las Vegas Strip properties in the past few months, according to the Southern Nevada Health Department.
The properties where bed bugs were found include the Excalibur, the Mirage, the Venetian and the Encore. According to the complaints, none of the hotels were fined following each investigation and treatment.
One complaint, filed by a guest who stayed at the Excalibur in October 2023, noted bed bugs, and the hotel followed up with an investigation. After the health department confirmed the presence of bed bugs, the affected room was treated and no fines were issued.
Another complaint from a guest who stayed at the Mirage in October 2023 also noted bed bugs, and they received a refund after reporting it to hotel management. Crews treating the room also noted bed bugs in the box spring mattress.
No bed bugs were found by health department officials in a followup visit.
One guest who stayed at the Venetian in September was moved to a different suite after reporting bed bugs. The health department further confirmed the report after crews found bed bugs during an inspection, and the room was treated in the following days.
The final report was from a guest who stayed at the Encore in December 2023, who reported possible bed bugs in her room. A bed bug detection dog swept the room and found “one live bug,” according to the report.
The room was immediately taken out of service and treated for bed bugs.
Bed bugs are a problem throughout the country, but travelers can take measures to avoid bringing the blood suckers home with them.
The New York City Department of Mental Health and Hygiene recommends that travelers use hard-cased luggage and pack their clothing in resealable plastic bags.
Hotel guests should ask about the hotel’s bed bug policy and inspect the hotel room themselves with a flashlight, including beds, box springs and upholstered furniture.
Put luggage on a hard elevated surface – not on the floor or upholstered furniture. “If you can’t find a suitable surface, put your luggage in a dry bathtub, or leave it in your car until you’ve done a quick inspection,” the guidance said.
If you find signs of bug activity, demand another room.
Once you come home, unpack your bag in the bathroom against light-colored surfaces to make sure a bug hasn’t hitched a ride. Examine your bag carefully. Also, wash all clothing.