Sarnia-Lambton politicians want to help people whose residences are infested with bed bugs.

A large number of people have come forward to say they're dealing with the pest this summer.

Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley said he gets several calls a day, especially from lower income people, who are stressed out because of the financial pressures of getting rid of bed bugs.

So, Lambton County officials are putting together a new corporate strategy to deal with the pest in social housing and nursing homes. It will also look at providing financial help to people getting rid of bed bugs.

Bradley says the county already has ways of dealing with bed bugs but it's time to be more aggressive.

"As the problem grows, they're having more difficultly coping with it. I think we need to ratchet it up on how were dealing with it," Bradley said. "I think the county, in one situation, did their best but I'm not sure the full extent of the problem was acknowledged in the beginning which then led to further problems."

The county plans community forums this fall to talk about the best ways to get rid of bed bugs and to explain what help is available.

"We need to look at how we can help those extremely hurt by this type of thing because they don't have the money, they don't have the resources, their children are stigmatized, and I think we're moving in the right direction."