Reports of bed bugs at UNB Saint John have prompted concern from students at the university.

The issue became public this week after several posts were made on Facebook and Instagram.

However, one student who spoke to our newsroom said the problem has been ongoing for weeks.

They also claimed the university had been silent about the issue until the social media posts were made.

In response to questions from our newsroom, the university sent a statement from Bill Best, the vice-president of administration and finance.

Best said incidents of bed bugs have been confirmed in the Hans W. Klohn Commons and Oland Hall over the past month.

“Both were closed, treated and deemed cleared by Orkin before reopening,” Best said in the statement.

The vice-president said they have heard a number of concerns about bed bugs since Tuesday but pest control company Orkin did not find any signs of the insect.

Best said the company is engaged to monitor the university’s residences on a regular basis.

“In addition, when a bed bug concern is raised, Orkin does a more precise investigation. Orkin has not detected bed bugs in our residences,” he said.

Best went on to say that the university will continue to enhance its monitoring of campus spaces for the next several days.

Anyone who knows of a previous or active situation involving bed bugs on campus is urged to contact the university so it can follow up.