RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. (AP) -- Salem Elementary School in Russell County has placed a ban on materials students bring to and from school. This temporary ban comes after a half-dozen bed bugs were found in the building, and covers items such as backpacks and lunchboxes, which could easily transport the small parasites.

Bed bugs are bloodsucking parasites that leave small, red, itchy marks on the body. Bed bug concerns extend across the nation as reports of bed bugs continue to spread.