Insect Train Keeps Rolling Along – Bedbugs

Bedbugs Get Up Close and PersonalGoing along with the idea that this year is likely to be a veritable ‘Insectapalooza,’ Atlanta based pest control company, Orkin, recently released its top 50 cities for bed bugs. Unlike most other top 50 lists, this one isn’t much cause for celebration – unless you’re not on it. Unfortunately for local residents, Atlanta is movin’ on up!

Sitting at number 21, Atlanta moved up 24 spots from last years rankings. Now much of this may be due in large part to the Hartsfield Jackson Airport, but with so many people moving through the city daily, the number is only likely to climb.

Bedbugs spread easily by hitching rides in luggage and in clothing as people move about and travel. Once they settle in a home, whether your bedroom or a hotel room, they can be very difficult to eradicate.

Since these little vampires only come out at night and feed on blood, their bites are generally noticeable, as are spots or smears on bedding and bedroom furniture. When traveling to areas where bedbugs are a problem, remember to inspect your surroundings before unpacking. Keep you luggage elevated up off of the ground and on a luggage rack. Bag clothing and luggage before returning home, and toss clothes in the washer (use hot water) or in the dryer (on high for 15 minutes) to kill any potential bedbugs.

Other notables on the list: Cincinnati (1), Chicago (2), Detroit (3), Denver (4), Los Angeles (5), New York (9), Boston (14), Charlotte (33).

Other factors for the increased rankings are increased public awareness (making it easier to identify the actual problem) and an actual increase in the overall bedbug population in the city. Rankings are based upon the number of treatments Orkin performed from January to December of 2011. For more on the rankings.

4 thoughts on “Insect Train Keeps Rolling Along – Bedbugs

  1. Jaylin August 7, 2012 / 5:42 am

    If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more details? It is extremely helpful for me. Big thumb up for this blogpost!

  2. Jackson Leavitt March 28, 2014 / 4:51 pm

    I do not like bugs at all and the thought of bugs living” on me is disgusting. I hope that I never get fleas because I think I might freak out. I don't even know how I'd get rid of fleas if I had them.”

  3. Jayden Eden March 28, 2014 / 10:28 pm

    That picture freaks me out a little bit. I would never expect to see a bed bug that close up. It looks like a bee almost, but with a much bigger abdomen. It also doesn't have wings.
    Jayden E.

  4. Bob Strong May 6, 2014 / 1:45 pm

    I agree with you wholeheartedly. There is something about bugs that is just repulsive. If this freaks you out, I wouldn't recommend watching the Bear Grylls show. He eats bugs like this for protein to survive all the time.

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