Bed bugs are making an unwelcome comeback across the United States, and Pennsylvania is at the epicenter of this resurgence. In 2023, three Pennsylvania cities—Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Pittsburgh—ranked among the most bed bug-infested cities in the nation, according to Orkin’s annual list.
As infestations rise, cities across the state are ramping up efforts to combat these persistent pests with innovative prevention programs, advanced treatments, and community education.
1. Philadelphia: Leading with Prevention and Innovation
Philadelphia has consistently appeared near the top of national bed bug infestation lists, prompting aggressive action from city officials and housing authorities.
The Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) recently launched a $15 million, five-year partnership with Allergy Technologies to implement the ATAHC (Affordable Housing Control and Prevention) program in 6,000 public housing units. This initiative stands out for its proactive approach:
- Facility-wide screening and immediate treatment of infested units.
- Installation of long-acting preventive measures across properties.
- Comprehensive education for staff and residents to ensure early detection and intervention.
The results have been dramatic: over 99% of units reported no bed bug reintroductions, and operational costs related to bed bug management dropped by more than 40%. The program’s success is now being considered as a model for other cities nationwide.
2. Harrisburg: Professional Inspections and Targeted Treatments
Harrisburg, another city on the national bed bug radar, is focusing on professional pest management and community cooperation. Local pest control companies emphasize the importance of thorough inspections and multi-stage treatments, typically involving three visits spaced two weeks apart.
These services are available for both residential and commercial properties, with warranties offered to ensure long-term results. In multi-family dwellings and hotels, adjacent units are often inspected and treated to prevent the spread of infestations.
3. Pittsburgh: Advanced Extermination Techniques
Pittsburgh residents are also facing a significant bed bug challenge. Local experts stress that simply discarding infested mattresses is not enough, as bed bugs hide in carpets, furniture, baseboards, and even electrical outlets. Professional exterminators in Pittsburgh use a combination of:
- Comprehensive inspections
- Targeted treatments of affected areas
- Advanced products like Aprehend®
- Mattress and box spring encasements
- Follow-up visits tailored to the severity of the infestation
This multi-pronged approach is designed to eliminate bed bugs at all life stages and prevent re-infestation.
4. Lancaster: Community Engagement and Integrated Pest Management
Lancaster, while not as high-profile as Philadelphia or Pittsburgh, is also grappling with bed bug outbreaks. Local pest control providers highlight the importance of integrated pest management (IPM), which combines mechanical, chemical, and educational strategies.
Community engagement is crucial, as successful control often requires cooperation between property owners, tenants, and pest management professionals.
5. Allentown: Vigilance and Early Detection
Although not explicitly listed in the top three, Allentown and other Pennsylvania cities are increasing vigilance through public awareness campaigns and early detection efforts.
Residents are encouraged to inspect bedding, furniture, and luggage regularly, especially after travel, and to report suspected infestations promptly to local authorities or pest control services.
The Road Ahead: Technology, Education, and Collaboration
The bed bug battle in Pennsylvania is far from over. Experts agree that the most effective strategies combine:
- Early detection and intervention
- Advanced, targeted treatments
- Ongoing education for residents and property managers
- Collaboration between public agencies, pest control professionals, and the community
Philadelphia’s ATAHC program is already demonstrating that a proactive, prevention-based approach can dramatically reduce infestations and improve quality of life for residents.
As other cities adopt similar models and invest in new technologies, Pennsylvania is poised to lead the way in the fight against these resilient invaders.
Sources:
- https://wpst.com/pennsylvania-bed-bug-cities/
- https://www.nahro.org/journal_article/philadelphia-housing-authority-pha-implements-bed-bug-prevention-program/
- https://tomlinsonbomberger.com/pest-control/bed-bugs/
- https://www.wittpm.com/bed-bug-treatment
- https://www.nahro.org/journal_article/in-philadelphia-a-transformative-new-program-eliminates-more-than-99-of-bed-bugs/