If you find itchiness and bites, what action is recommended?

• A. Immediately conduct a thorough inspection
• B. Ignore and monitor
• C. Apply over-the-counter creams only
• D. Move to another apartment

Answer: (B)

When you notice itchiness and bites, the first step is a thorough inspection to identify the source and scope of the problem. This allows you to confirm whether pests are present—such as bed bugs, fleas, or mites—and to understand how widespread the issue is, so you can act quickly to prevent spread and reduce exposure.

During the inspection, focus on sleeping areas and common contact points: mattress seams, bed frames, headboards, box springs, cracks and crevices in baseboards, outlets, upholstered furniture, and luggage or clothing storage areas. Look for signs like live insects, shed skins, dark specks (fecal matter), blood spots on sheets, or a musty odor. Document what you find and, if pests are suspected, involve building management or a pest-control professional to plan appropriate treatment and containment.

OTC creams might help relieve itching, but they don’t address the pest problem itself. Moving to another apartment could simply relocate the issue, and ignoring it allows the infestation to continue or worsen. A prompt, systematic inspection is the best initial action.