Insect Invasion: 5 Nebraska Cities Combatting Bed Bug Onslaught

Nebraska is facing a persistent and growing challenge with bed bug infestations, particularly in its largest urban centers. While bed bugs do not transmit disease, their presence can cause significant distress, sleeplessness, and financial hardship for residents.

Here’s a look at five Nebraska cities where the bed bug battle is most intense—and how communities are fighting back.

1. Omaha

Omaha stands at the epicenter of Nebraska’s bed bug crisis. The city consistently ranks among the nation’s worst for bed bug infestations, landing 30th on Orkin’s 2024 Top 50 Bed Bug Cities List, and previously ranking as high as 36th nationally.

The issue is especially acute in public housing, where tenants have filed a class-action lawsuit against the Omaha Housing Authority (OHA) for failing to adequately address widespread infestations across multiple high-rise buildings.

Despite expanded pest control teams and new heat treatment rooms, many residents continue to report ongoing problems. Legislative attempts to strengthen landlord responsibilities were recently vetoed, leaving advocates pushing for local solutions.

2. Lincoln

Lincoln, Nebraska’s capital, is also grappling with frequent bed bug reports. Local pest control companies and university extension offices report that bed bug infestations are a regular concern, with many cases involving mistaken identity with similar-looking bat bugs.

Professional exterminators in Lincoln use a combination of heat and chemical treatments, and public health campaigns emphasize early detection and prevention.

3. Grand Island

Grand Island, as a regional hub with a diverse population and significant rental housing, has seen a rise in bed bug complaints. Local health departments and pest control services offer guidance and treatment, and community outreach programs aim to educate residents about prevention and the importance of prompt professional intervention.

4. Kearney

Kearney has experienced an uptick in bed bug infestations, particularly in multi-unit housing and hotels. The city’s response includes increased inspections, public information campaigns, and partnerships with pest control professionals to contain outbreaks quickly.

5. Fremont

Fremont rounds out the list with ongoing reports of bed bugs in both residential and commercial properties. Local authorities encourage vigilance, regular inspections, and immediate reporting of suspected infestations to prevent spread.

How Nebraska Cities Are Fighting Back

Heat and Chemical Treatments: Professional pest control companies employ a mix of heat and chemical applications to eradicate bed bugs at all life stages.
Public Health Campaigns: Local health departments and university extension offices provide education on prevention, detection, and the importance of not bringing home used furniture without inspection.
Legislative Action: Recent legislative efforts, such as LB287, aim to require housing agencies to inspect, disclose, and professionally treat bed bug infestations, though some measures have faced political hurdles.
Tenant Advocacy: Residents, particularly in Omaha, are organizing and pursuing legal remedies to hold landlords and housing authorities accountable for persistent infestations.

Bed bugs remain a formidable foe in Nebraska’s urban centers, with Omaha and Lincoln at the forefront of the fight. Effective control requires a coordinated effort between residents, landlords, pest control professionals, and policymakers. Early detection, professional treatment, and public education are key to turning the tide in Nebraska’s ongoing bed bug battle.

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