Which measure is specifically described as a mattress protection step for bedbug control?

• A. Thermal fogging of room
• B. Sealing cracks with plaster
• C. Mattress enhancement (Plastic cover)
• D. Replacing mattress only

Answer: (C)

Protecting the sleeping surface with a mattress encasement is a dedicated step in bedbug management. Using a plastic cover to fully seal the mattress (and often the box spring) creates a barrier that bedbugs cannot breach, which helps prevent the bugs from living in or escaping from the mattress and makes hiding spots easier to detect during inspection and treatment. This is a containment and prevention measure rather than a treatment applied to the room or structure. In contrast, fogging targets insects in the space, sealing cracks addresses entry points but not the mattress itself, and simply replacing the mattress removes one item but doesn’t provide ongoing protection against future infestations.