Travelers at Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport recently encountered an unexpected delay: bed bugs. The pests caused a temporary shutdown of three gates in Terminal 2, primarily used by Southwest Airlines. The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) swiftly responded, initiating a thorough cleaning process that involved carpet removal, insecticide application, and preventative pest control measures.

These tiny critters are notorious for hitching rides in luggage and clothing, making travelers particularly vulnerable to infestations. Southwest Airlines emphasized its commitment to pest control, highlighting its comprehensive cleaning protocols for aircraft, equipment, and common areas.

Bed bugs, small insects about the size of an apple seed, feed on human blood, typically while people sleep. They are nocturnal and often hide in dark crevices, such as mattress seams, box springs, and even picture frames. Dermatologist Dr. Alison Ehrlich notes that their bites, often clustered in a zigzag pattern, are frequently mistaken for mosquito or flea bites, as they tend to appear on the upper body.

Identifying bed bugs requires vigilance. Look for telltale signs like a sweet, musty odor, small bloodstains on bedding, and dark fecal spots. Inspecting mattresses, box springs, and upholstered furniture for shed exoskeletons (their outer shells) and tiny cream-colored eggs can also confirm their presence. Dr. Ehrlich recommends focusing on mattress seams and corners, where they are most likely to congregate.

As bed bugs thrive in high-traffic areas, airports are particularly susceptible to infestations. Kilauea Pest Control, the company tasked with the Honolulu airport cleanup, underscored this point, reminding travelers to thoroughly check their luggage for these persistent pests. While most bed bug bites heal within a week or two with soap and water, over-the-counter corticosteroid creams can alleviate itching.