Bed bugs are surging across North Carolina, with several cities now ranking among the worst in the nation for infestations. Driven by factors like warm, humid summers and increased travel, these pests are a growing concern for both residents and businesses.
Here’s a look at the North Carolina cities most affected by bed bugs and how they’re fighting back.
1. Charlotte
Charlotte ranks 9th in the nation for bed bug infestations, climbing five spots from the previous year. The city’s dense population, busy travel hubs, and high hotel occupancy rates make it a hotspot for bed bug activity.
Local hotels, such as Hotel Refuge, are intensifying their sanitation protocols-using protective mattress covers, frequent inspections, and immediate room closures if bed bugs are detected.
Residents are urged to regularly check mattress seams and use the S.L.E.E.P. method when traveling: Survey, Lift, Elevate, Examine, and Put clothes in the dryer upon returning home.
2. Greensboro
Greensboro has seen a dramatic increase in bed bug cases, now ranking 18th nationally-a jump of 25 places in just one year. Experts attribute this spike to the city’s growing population and travel activity.
Pest control companies are responding with targeted treatments and public awareness campaigns, encouraging residents to declutter homes, inspect second-hand items, and seek professional help at the first sign of infestation.
3. Raleigh-Durham
The Raleigh-Durham area holds the 24th spot on the national list. While the region has improved slightly in its ranking, bed bugs remain a persistent threat, especially in hotels, apartments, and student housing.
Local authorities and pest control professionals recommend frequent inspections, heat treatments, and public education to prevent the spread of these resilient pests.
4. Greenville
While not in the top 25, Greenville is also on the radar, ranking 93rd nationally for bed bug infestations. The city’s inclusion highlights that bed bug problems are not limited to the largest urban centers. Residents are advised to be vigilant, especially when traveling or bringing second-hand items into their homes.
5. Asheville
Asheville appears at 124th nationally, but its growing tourism industry and influx of visitors make it susceptible to outbreaks. Local pest control services emphasize early detection and rapid response, using both chemical and heat-based treatments to eradicate infestations before they spread.
Why Are Bed Bugs Such a Problem in North Carolina?
- Climate: Warm, humid summers create ideal breeding conditions for bed bugs.
- Travel and Transport: Bed bugs hitch rides on luggage, clothing, and furniture, spreading rapidly in cities with high travel volumes.
- Urban Density: Crowded living conditions and frequent movement between homes, hotels, and public spaces increase the risk of infestations.
How Cities Are Fighting Back
- Enhanced Hotel Protocols: Regular inspections, protective mattress covers, and immediate room quarantines when bed bugs are found.
- Public Education: Campaigns teaching residents how to spot bed bugs, inspect second-hand items, and take preventive measures.
- Professional Extermination: Use of heat treatments, chemical applications, and ongoing monitoring by licensed pest control companies.
- Community Vigilance: Residents are encouraged to report infestations early and avoid bringing used furniture or clothing into their homes without thorough inspection.
Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh-Durham, Greenville, and Asheville are at the forefront of North Carolina’s battle against bed bugs.
Through a mix of public awareness, rigorous inspection protocols, and professional pest control, these cities are working to contain and reduce infestations, but vigilance remains key for residents and travelers alike.
Sources:
- https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/charlotte/news/2024/02/14/charlotte–greensboro–and-raleigh-durhan-in-top-25-cities-for-bed-bugs
- https://hits961.iheart.com/content/2024-01-26-3-north-carolina-cities-among-the-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/
- https://www.a-1pc.com/blog/why-bed-bugs-are-a-constant-problem-in-nc
- https://www.cleggs.com/pests-and-bugs/bed-bugs/
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-01-26-3-north-carolina-cities-among-the-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/