Mizzou takes aggressive approach on bedbugs

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- University of Missouri officials say they will use an extra-aggressive method to treat bedbugs if any cases arise this year.

The university has had seven instances of bedbugs since August 2010, but none so far this school year.

The Columbia Daily Tribune reported any company hired to provide routine pest management services for the school must have the ability to eradicate bedbugs with heat treatment.

Bedbugs at the university previously were treated with spraying, but spokeswoman Mary Jo Banken said heat treatment is expected to be more effective.

Bedbugs are small, wingless insects that feed on blood and are difficult to eradicate once they have gotten a foothold.

Hotels and motels are the primary gathering spots for the bugs, but they're starting to become common on college campuses.