Bed bugs are nocturnal insects that are brownish in color and have a flat body. Adult specimens are about the size of an apple seed. They are parasites that feed on the blood of mammals, mainly humans, and are often found indoors.

Bed bugs can be transported through various means, such as in luggage, on clothing, or in used furniture. They can also navigate between different rooms or units in multi-family buildings by crawling through cracks and crevices. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-do-bed-bugs-spread 

Typical signs of an infestation include bite marks on the skin that appear as small red bumps, often in a line or cluster. Other indicators are dark fecal spots on mattresses and bedding, as well as the presence of the bugs themselves or their shed skin.

To minimize the risk of an infestation, one should be cautious when acquiring used furniture, and inspect it carefully. When traveling, it's advisable to keep luggage off of beds and upholstery, and to check hotel mattresses and headboards. Protective mattress covers can also deter bed bugs.

While they have not been shown to transmit diseases, their bites can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Persistent scratching of the bites can lead to skin infections. The presence of can also cause stress and anxiety.