North Carolina is currently facing a significant bed bug surge, with several of its cities ranking among the worst in the nation for infestations. Bed bugs, notorious for their resilience and ability to hitchhike on luggage, clothing, and furniture, have become a persistent challenge for both residents and businesses across the state.
The Top Affected Cities
According to recent pest control industry data, particularly from Orkin’s 2024 national rankings, the following North Carolina cities are grappling most with bed bug outbreaks:
| Rank (US) | North Carolina City | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Charlotte | Up 5 spots |
| 18 | Greensboro | Up 25 spots |
| 24 | Raleigh-Durham | Down 4 spots |
| — | Lenoir/Blowing Rock* | Ongoing issue |
| — | Hickory/Mooresville* | Ongoing issue |
*While Orkin’s national list highlights Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh-Durham, regional pest control reports also identify Lenoir, Blowing Rock, Hickory, and Mooresville as cities with persistent bed bug activity and frequent calls for extermination services.
Why Are These Cities Hard Hit?
- Travel and Population Density: High travel rates and dense urban populations in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham increase the risk of bed bug spread, as these pests are adept at catching rides on personal belongings and public transportation.
- Climate: North Carolina’s warm, humid climate provides ideal conditions for bed bug activity, especially during the summer months, but infestations can occur year-round due to indoor heating.
- Housing and Hospitality: Bed bugs are commonly found in hotels, apartments, dormitories, and other shared living spaces, making cities with large hospitality sectors more vulnerable.
How Cities Are Fighting Back
Local governments, businesses, and pest control professionals are taking a multi-pronged approach:
- Proactive Inspections: Hotels and apartment complexes are increasing routine inspections, focusing on mattress seams, furniture crevices, and other common bed bug hiding spots.
- Public Education: Residents are being advised to recognize early signs of infestation-such as rusty stains on bedding, itchy bites, and musty odors-and to report issues promptly.
- Professional Extermination: Pest control companies employ chemical and heat treatments, often requiring multiple visits to fully eradicate infestations. Many offer guarantees and follow-up inspections to ensure bed bugs are eliminated.
- Preventive Measures: The use of protective mattress covers, decluttering, and laundering clothing and bedding at high temperatures are recommended to reduce hiding places and kill bed bugs.
- Community Outreach: Health departments and pest control services provide resources and guidance for both prevention and treatment, aiming to limit the spread within neighborhoods and multi-unit dwellings.
What Residents Should Do
- Inspect regularly: Check sleeping areas, furniture, and luggage for signs of bed bugs.
- Act quickly: At the first sign of infestation, contact professional pest control services. DIY methods are often insufficient for severe cases.
- Follow prevention tips: When traveling, use the S.L.E.E.P. method-Survey, Lift, Elevate, Examine, and Put clothes in the dryer-to avoid bringing bed bugs home.
The Ongoing Battle
Despite aggressive efforts, bed bugs remain a constant threat in North Carolina’s urban centers and smaller cities alike. Vigilance, public awareness, and professional intervention are essential in combating this resilient pest and preventing further spread across the state.
Sources
[1] https://www.carolinapest.com/winters-unwanted-guests-how-to-handle-bed-bugs-in-north-carolina/
[2] https://www.terminix-triad.com/our-blog/bed-bugs-in-north-carolina
[3] https://hits961.iheart.com/content/2024-01-26-3-north-carolina-cities-among-the-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/
[4] https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/charlotte/news/2024/02/14/charlotte–greensboro–and-raleigh-durhan-in-top-25-cities-for-bed-bugs
[5] https://www.a-1pc.com/services/bed-bug-control