South Carolina, like many states, is grappling with a persistent bed bug problem. Recent reports and pest control data highlight several cities across the state where infestations are on the rise or have become particularly challenging. Here are five South Carolina cities actively combatting bed bug outbreaks:
1. Greenville
Greenville stands out as the most bed bug-afflicted city in South Carolina, repeatedly earning a spot on national lists of the worst cities for bed bugs. In recent Orkin rankings, Greenville was listed as No. 27 in the U.S. for bed bug treatments, underscoring the scale of the issue faced by residents and local pest control professionals. The city’s high ranking reflects both the prevalence of infestations and the ongoing efforts to address them.
2. Columbia
Columbia, the state capital, has also seen significant bed bug activity. Pest control professionals report frequent calls from both residential and commercial properties, including luxury apartment complexes. Cases often involve tenants concerned about bringing bed bugs home after travel, highlighting the importance of vigilance and proactive treatment in this urban center.
3. Orangeburg
Orangeburg has experienced recurring bed bug infestations in homes and apartments. Residents often attempt DIY solutions before turning to professional pest control, with mixed results. Persistent cases have prompted increased use of professional heat treatments, which have proven effective in eliminating entrenched infestations.
4. Santee
Santee, a smaller town in Orangeburg County, is not immune to bed bug problems. Local pest control companies have documented challenging cases, including lake houses with severe infestations. Residents have tried various home remedies, but professional intervention, especially heat treatments, has been necessary to fully eradicate the pests.
5. Myrtle Beach
While not explicitly ranked in national lists, Myrtle Beach is a major tourist destination and, according to local pest control providers, regularly deals with bed bug problems in hotels, vacation rentals, and homes. The high turnover of visitors increases the risk of new infestations and necessitates ongoing vigilance and rapid response from both property owners and pest control services.
How These Cities Are Fighting Back
- Professional Heat Treatments: Increasingly used for their effectiveness in killing bed bugs in all life stages.
- Public Education: Residents are encouraged to inspect secondhand furniture, declutter homes, and check for signs of bed bugs regularly.
- Rapid Response: Early detection and prompt professional intervention are emphasized to prevent infestations from spreading.
- Hotel and Rental Inspections: In tourist hotspots like Myrtle Beach, routine inspections and staff training are key preventive measures.
South Carolina cities continue to battle the bed bug onslaught with a combination of public awareness, professional expertise, and community cooperation.
Sources
[1] https://columbia.binnews.com/content/2024-01-26-south-carolina-city-named-among-the-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/
[2] https://www.iheart.com/content/2023-01-11-1-south-carolina-city-named-among-the-worst-us-cities-for-bed-bugs/
[3] https://www.harrispestcontrolinc.com/signs-of-bed-bugs
[4] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
[5] https://bedbugsc.com/infestation-Orangeburg-Richland-Counties.php