Ohio bedbug report says pests taking over

COLUMBUS (AP) — An Ohio bedbug workgroup says the state should continue to pursue federal approval to use an industrial pesticide in homes infected with the bloodsucking insects.

The Ohio Department of Health today released the final report of the group created last year to develop prevention and control recommendations.

The U.S. EPA has so far denied Ohio’s request regarding the pesticide propoxur, which the agency considers a probable carcinogen and banned for in-home use in 2007.

The report also urges petitioning the EPA and other federal agencies to direct resources at developing new pesticides.

The report to the governor and state legislators further suggests more coordination between state and local agencies and a state-operated toll free information line to educate the public on prevention and control.