Bed bugs are resurging across the United States, and Indiana is no exception. Recent data from pest control companies and independent studies highlight several Indiana cities grappling with significant bed bug infestations. Here’s a look at five cities on the frontlines of this insect invasion, the scale of their bed bug problems, and what’s being done to fight back.
The Top 5 Bed Bug-Infested Cities in Indiana
| City | National Rank (2024) | Infestation Risk Rank | Pest Control Rank | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis | 4 (Terminix), 31 (Pest Gnome) | 21 | 132 | Highest in Indiana, among top in U.S. |
| South Bend | 38 (Terminix), 225 (Pest Gnome) | 336 | 111 | Persistent issue, high on national lists |
| Evansville | 46 (Terminix), 240 (Pest Gnome) | 196 | 279 | Southern Indiana hotspot |
| Fort Wayne | 169 (Pest Gnome) | 184 | 174 | Large city, consistent reports |
| Bloomington | 180 (Pest Gnome) | 116 | 333 | University town, high risk |
Indianapolis:
The state capital is the epicenter of Indiana’s bed bug crisis, ranking as high as 4th in the nation according to Terminix and 31st according to Pest Gnome. Indianapolis’s large population, dense housing, and frequent travel connections contribute to its high infestation risk. The city has a robust pest control industry, but the persistent problem indicates ongoing challenges in eradication and prevention.
South Bend:
Home to the University of Notre Dame, South Bend consistently appears on national lists, ranking 38th by Terminix and 225th by Pest Gnome. Its combination of older housing stock and transient populations (students, visitors) makes it particularly vulnerable.
Evansville:
Evansville, in southern Indiana, is another major hotspot, ranked 46th by Terminix and 240th by Pest Gnome. The city’s pest control efforts are ongoing, but infestations remain difficult to fully eliminate.
Fort Wayne:
As Indiana’s second-largest city, Fort Wayne ranks 169th nationally for bed bug problems, with a moderate infestation risk and a sizable pest control sector. Its urban density and housing diversity contribute to the ongoing battle.
Bloomington:
Bloomington, known for Indiana University, ranks 180th in the country for bed bug issues, with a particularly high infestation risk (116th). The student population and high turnover in rental units increase the risk of bed bug spread.
How These Cities Are Fighting Back
- Public Awareness: Cities are increasing public education about bed bug identification, prevention, and reporting, especially during Bed Bug Awareness Week.
- Enhanced Pest Control: Local governments and property managers are working with pest control companies to implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, combining chemical treatments with heat remediation and thorough inspections.
- Reporting and Transparency: Resources like Bed Bug Reports allow residents and travelers to check for recent infestations in hotels and apartment complexes, increasing transparency and encouraging proactive treatment.
- Support for Vulnerable Populations: Special attention is given to multi-unit housing, shelters, and student accommodations, where infestations can spread quickly.
Why the Onslaught?
Bed bugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed exclusively on blood and can hitchhike easily on luggage, clothing, and furniture. They do not transmit diseases, but their bites can cause discomfort and anxiety. Once established, bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eradicate without professional intervention.
Sources:
- https://wkfr.com/indiana-bed-bugs/
- https://wkdq.com/eight-indiana-cities-included-on-2024s-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs/
- https://wkfr.com/indiana-bed-bugs-2023/
- https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
- https://wkdq.com/new-study-of-most-infested-cities-includes-3-indiana-cities/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mLu2gjimtg