Maryland is facing a significant challenge as several cities experience a surge in bed bug infestations. Among the most affected are Baltimore, Washington, D.C. (including Hagerstown), Salisbury, Columbia, and Frederick.
Bed bugs, notorious for their ability to spread quickly and remain difficult to eliminate, are causing serious problems in homes, hotels, and other public spaces.
The Cities Most Affected
Baltimore remains the hardest-hit city in Maryland, ranking 20th nationally in bed bug infestations. It also appears as the 51st-worst U.S. city for the problem. With its high population density and large number of multi-unit residences, it’s no surprise that Baltimore is struggling with this issue.
Washington, D.C. (including Hagerstown) ranks 8th nationally, making it another major hotspot for infestations. Its status as a major travel destination and dense urban area makes it a prime environment for the pests to spread.
Salisbury, which is also grappling with a serious bed bug issue, ranks 47th nationally. As smaller cities face fewer resources for pest control, infestations are proving harder to control.
Columbia and Frederick, while lower in the rankings at 218th and 358th, are still significant trouble areas. These cities are not immune to the problem, and pest control efforts are ramping up to prevent further spread.
Efforts to Combat the Outbreak
The cities impacted by this bed bug surge are taking aggressive action to address the issue. Key efforts include:
Increased pest control operations in high-risk areas such as apartments, hotels, and retirement communities.
Emergency responses to address outbreaks quickly, preventing further spread.
Public awareness campaigns, advising residents and travelers to inspect bedding, furniture, and luggage for any early signs of bed bug activity. Common signs include small brown stains, shed exoskeletons, and, of course, the bugs themselves.
How to Protect Yourself
As the summer months bring more travel and movement around the region, bed bug infestations have only worsened. Maryland’s cities, particularly Baltimore and Washington, D.C., are urging both locals and visitors to stay vigilant.
Residents are encouraged to regularly check for early signs of infestations, and travelers are advised to inspect hotel rooms and accommodations before settling in. Simple actions like keeping luggage off the floor and inspecting bedding can make a big difference in reducing the risk of spreading or contracting bed bugs.
The bed bug crisis in Maryland’s urban centers is becoming more serious, with five cities—Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Salisbury, Columbia, and Frederick—facing significant infestations.
As these cities ramp up pest control efforts and public awareness, it’s important for everyone, from local residents to visitors, to be proactive in preventing the spread of these persistent pests.
[1] https://www.orkin.com/press-room/worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-annual-rankings
[2] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
[3] https://www.lajaunies.com/americas-most-bed-bug-infested-cities/
