North Carolina is facing a significant bed bug problem, with several cities ranking among the worst in the nation for infestations. According to recent data from Orkin, a leading pest control company, the following cities are at the forefront of the battle against bed bugs:
1. Charlotte
- National Ranking: 9th worst city for bed bugs in the U.S.
- Situation: Charlotte has seen a notable increase in bed bug cases, climbing five spots from the previous year. The city’s hotels and residents are ramping up efforts, including routine inspections, protective mattress covers, and rapid response protocols when infestations are detected.
2. Greensboro
- National Ranking: 18th
- Situation: Greensboro experienced one of the largest jumps nationally, moving up 25 spots in the rankings. This surge has prompted increased awareness and pest control interventions across residential and commercial properties.
3. Raleigh-Durham
- National Ranking: 24th
- Situation: While still in the top 25, Raleigh-Durham actually improved its standing, dropping four spots. Nonetheless, the region continues to see regular infestations, with experts urging vigilance, especially when acquiring second-hand furniture or traveling.
4. Greenville
- National Ranking: 93rd
- Situation: Greenville appears further down the national list but is still among the most affected in North Carolina. Residents and local authorities are advised to remain proactive in monitoring and addressing bed bug issues.
5. Asheville
- National Ranking: 124th
- Situation: Asheville rounds out the top five for North Carolina, highlighting that bed bug concerns are not limited to the state’s largest cities. Local pest control experts recommend regular inspections and prompt treatment to keep infestations at bay.
How These Cities Are Fighting Back
- Routine Inspections: Hotels and property managers are conducting regular checks, focusing on mattress seams, headboards, and other common hiding spots.
- Protective Measures: Use of mattress encasements and barriers to prevent infestations from spreading1.
- Public Awareness: Campaigns to educate residents about checking luggage, second-hand items, and early signs of infestation.
- Professional Treatments: Swift engagement of pest control services when infestations are found, including isolating affected rooms and adjacent areas.
Expert Tips for Residents and Travelers
- Survey sleeping areas for signs of bed bugs.
- Lift and look in common hiding spots, such as mattress creases.
- Elevate luggage away from beds and walls.
- Examine luggage and clothing after travel.
- Put all dryer-safe clothing in the dryer on the highest setting for 30–45 minutes upon returning home1.
Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh-Durham, Greenville, and Asheville are the five North Carolina cities most affected by bed bug infestations. These cities are intensifying inspection protocols, public education, and rapid response to combat the ongoing bed bug onslaught.
Sources
[1] https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/charlotte/news/2024/02/14/charlotte–greensboro–and-raleigh-durhan-in-top-25-cities-for-bed-bugs
[2] https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-01-26-3-north-carolina-cities-among-the-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/
[3] https://www.lakenormanpest.com/top-7-common-pests-north-carolina/
[4] https://hits961.iheart.com/content/2024-01-26-3-north-carolina-cities-among-the-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/
[5] https://wkml.com/2024/01/23/three-north-carolina-cities-have-some-of-the-most-bedbugs-in-the-country/
