Bed bugs are tiny, blood-sucking insects that infest houses, hotels, and sleeping quarters. They are notoriously difficult to eliminate. Their presence can cause physical irritation, allergic responses, and emotional anguish.
According to a recent survey from Orkin, a prominent pest management firm, Kentucky is one of the states with the highest number of bed bug occurrences worldwide. In fact, three of its cities are among the top 50 most infected in the United States. Here’s an overview of this troubling problem, as well as advice for preventing and controlling bed bug infestations.
The Severity of Bed Bug Infestations in Kentucky
Orkin’s 2024 Bed Bug Cities List, which ranks cities based on the number of bed bug treatments performed by the firm from January to December 2023, shows Louisville as the 11th most infected city in the United States.
Lexington is ranked 34th, followed by Bowling Green at 49th. These rankings indicate a considerable increase in bed bug activity over the previous year, with Louisville moving up four ranks, Lexington six, and Bowling Green 16 points. Notably, Ohio is the only other state with three cities in the top 50, with Columbus holding the terrible distinction of being the most infected city in the US.
The origins of Kentucky’s high bed bug incidence are unknown, but possible variables include increasing travel, a lack of knowledge, and the insects’ chemical tolerance. Bed bugs may readily travel on luggage, clothing, and furniture, spreading undetected. Furthermore, certain bed bugs have become resistant to popular pesticides, hampering eradication attempts.
Preventing Bed Bug Infestations
To avoid bed bug infestations, keep them out of your house or office.
- Before and after traveling, thoroughly examine your baggage, clothing, and valuables for bedbugs.
- Avoid putting baggage or possessions directly on hotel floors, beds, or furniture; instead, use luggage racks or plastic bags.
- Wash and dry clothes and bedding on high heat after visiting or staying in possibly affected locations.
- Seal any holes or gaps in walls, floors, or furniture that bed bugs may use to hide.
- Vacuum floors, carpets, furniture, and mattresses regularly, and then dispose of the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic bag.
- When purchasing old furniture, exercise caution by properly checking it for evidence of bed bugs and treating it accordingly before bringing it indoors.
Managing Bed Bug Infestations
If you suspect or confirm a bed bug infestation, perform the following procedures.
- Contact a qualified pest control firm that has expertise in dealing with bed bugs.
- Prepare and treat according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Cooperate with the pest control firm and check the treatment’s success.
- Educate yourself and others about bed bug prevention and treatment to create awareness in your neighborhood.
Summary
To summarize, Kentucky has a severe and growing bed bug problem, with Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green being among the top 50 most afflicted cities in the United States. The increase in incidence indicates difficulty in prevention and control, underlining the importance of rigorous inspection, preventive measures, and coordination with pest control specialists to handle this widespread problem.