Bed bugs are making their way into homes, businesses, and even hotels across the United States, and some Iowa cities are facing more challenges than others.
If you live in or travel to Iowa, you may want to pay attention to the increasing problem of bed bugs, as some cities in the state have made it onto a list of the top cities for bed bug infestations.
Iowa Cities Fighting Bed Bug Problems
Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, and Waterloo have recently been ranked among the top 50 bed bug cities in the U.S., according to Orkin, a well-known pest control company.
These rankings are based on data from December 1, 2015, to November 30, 2016, showing where the company performed the most bed bug treatments. As a result, Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, and Waterloo came in at No. 38, which was an improvement from last year’s ranking.
Why Are Bed Bugs a Growing Issue?
According to Ron Harrison, an entomologist at Orkin, bed bugs have become a bigger problem in the U.S. than ever before. These tiny pests, once nearly nonexistent in the country, have made a big comeback in recent years.
Harrison pointed out that bed bugs are not a sign of uncleanliness, as many people believe. They only need blood to survive, and they can infest any home, from million-dollar houses to public housing.
How to Prevent Bed Bug Infestations
If you’re concerned about bed bugs in your home or while traveling, here are some helpful tips:
- Inspect Your Home: Pay special attention to areas around the bed, as well as any clutter. Inspect any furniture before bringing it into your home.
- Travel Smart: When staying at hotels, check mattress seams, box springs, and other furniture for signs of bed bugs. Avoid placing your luggage directly against the walls and examine your luggage before repacking. After traveling, put your clothing in the dryer on the highest heat setting.
- Call a Professional: If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it’s best to contact a pest management professional who can assess the situation and take action.
Other U.S. Cities Dealing with Bed Bugs
While Iowa cities are experiencing growing bed bug problems, they aren’t alone. According to the Orkin report, Baltimore ranks first for bed bug infestations, followed by Washington, D.C., Chicago, New York, and Columbus, Ohio, in the top five.
Several cities, including Salt Lake City, Honolulu, Las Vegas, and Portland, made the list for the first time.
The battle against bed bugs is real, and cities like Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, and Waterloo in Iowa are not immune.
Bed bugs can happen to anyone, so it’s important to take precautions at home and while traveling. With a little awareness and preparation, you can help keep your home bed bug-free.
