RF, What a nightmare! I saw one news program where an exterminator explained and showed how they treat for bedbugs. He showed treating every crevice in and around the bedding with powerful spray that is the only insecticide which will kill them. He also stated that the EPA (or some such agency) is removing this chemical from the market because of health concerns, so he was buying up all that was available before it was removed from shelves.
I hope your relative is successful in ridding himself of these pests. I have become paranoid about buying fabric, such as clothing, items on Ebay, and when I do, I keep them outside in sealed bags till laundered or dry cleaned. A friend and I like to shop at thrift and second-hand stores, but, there again, you don't really know what you're bringing into your home! Even high-end retail stores have been infested recently, and had to shut down business.
I would be reluctant to go to AJ's dad's residence till he is sure he is rid of the bedbugs. They hitch rides.