In a recent report by Orkin, Champaign, Illinois, has been identified as one of the top ten cities in the United States struggling with bed bug infestations, ranking at number 10. This news is particularly relevant for residents of East Central Illinois, as Champaign becomes a focal point in the larger national issue of bed bug prevalence.
The Top Cities for Bed Bugs
Leading the list is Chicago, known as “The Windy City,” which has held the unenviable position of being the number one city for bed bug infestations for the fourth consecutive year. Following closely are New York and Philadelphia, occupying the second and third spots, respectively. The list, based on treatment data from December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023, reflects both residential and commercial treatments carried out by Orkin. Notably, Greensboro, N.C., has seen a significant jump in its ranking, moving up twenty-five spots.
The Growing Concern Over Bed Bugs
With the recent bed bug issues in Paris gaining international attention, the concern over these pests has heightened, especially among travelers. As people plan their travels in 2024, awareness about bed bug identification and prevention has become more critical. Bed bugs are small, nocturnal insects, measuring about 3/16 inch long and varying in color from red to dark brown. They are known for their resilience and rapid reproduction rates, making them a persistent issue in both homes and hotels.
Checking for Bed Bugs
Ben Hottel, an Orkin entomologist, emphasizes the importance of being vigilant about bed bugs, especially during travel. To prevent bringing these pests home, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect hotel rooms for signs of infestation, such as tiny, ink-colored stains on mattresses and furniture, and to be cautious with second-hand items like clothing and furniture.
Prevention and Treatment Tips
In Your Home:
- Routine Inspections: Regularly search for bed bug indicators. Focus on their common daytime retreats such as mattress seams, tags, behind headboards, baseboards, electrical outlets, and picture frames. Perform these checks notably when moving into a new place, after traveling, following a service visit, or after hosting overnight guests.
- Minimize Clutter: Keep your living spaces tidy. A clutter-free environment not only deters bed bugs but also makes it easier to spot them during self or professional inspections.
- Scrutinize Secondhand Items: Thoroughly inspect pre-owned furniture before introducing it to your living space to prevent accidental infestations.
While Traveling:
Adopt the S.L.E.E.P. method to ensure a bed bug-free stay:
- Survey: Upon arrival, examine the hotel room for bed bug traces. Look for small, dark ink-like stains on mattress seams, plush furniture, and behind headboards.
- Lift and Look: Investigate potential bed bug hiding places, including under the mattress, box springs, other pieces of furniture, behind baseboards, pictures, and even beneath any peeling wallpaper.
- Elevate Luggage: Keep your luggage elevated from the floor and distant from walls or beds. Utilize bathroom surfaces or countertops for safer storage.
- Examine Luggage: Carefully inspect your luggage when repacking and once again when you return home. Always store your luggage away from sleeping areas.
- Post-trip Clothing Care: Treat all your travel clothes that are dryer-safe by heating them in the dryer at the highest possible temperature for 30 to 45 minutes. This step is crucial after returning from a trip.
Adhering to these revised tips can significantly reduce the risk of unwittingly harboring bed bugs in your home or during your travels.
