Bed bugs are small, blood-sucking insects that can infest homes, hotels, and other places where people sleep. They are notoriously hard to get rid of, and can cause itching, allergic reactions, and psychological distress to their victims.
According to a recent report by Orkin, a pest control company, Kentucky is one of the states with the most bed bug problems in the US. The report ranked 50 cities based on the number of bed bug treatments performed by Orkin from December 2019 to November 2020. Three Kentucky cities made it to the top 20: Lexington (10th), Louisville (15th), and Bowling Green (19th).
Why Kentucky?
There are several factors that may contribute to the high prevalence of bed bugs in Kentucky. One of them is the climate, which is humid and temperate, providing ideal conditions for bed bugs to thrive. Another factor is the high rate of poverty and homelessness in the state, which can limit the access to proper sanitation and pest control services.
A third factor is the high volume of travel and tourism in the state, especially to popular destinations like the Kentucky Derby, the Bourbon Trail, and the Mammoth Cave National Park. Travelers can unknowingly bring bed bugs with them from infested places, or pick them up from hotels, motels, or Airbnb rentals.
How to Prevent and Treat Bed Bug Infestations
The best way to prevent bed bug infestations is to be vigilant and cautious when traveling or staying in unfamiliar places. Some tips to avoid bringing bed bugs home are:
Inspect the bed, mattress, sheets, pillows, and furniture for any signs of bed bugs, such as live or dead bugs, eggs, fecal stains, or blood spots.
Keep your luggage and personal belongings away from the bed and the floor, and use plastic bags or covers to seal them.
Do not bring any second-hand furniture, clothing, or bedding into your home without thoroughly checking and cleaning them.
Wash and dry your clothes and bedding on high heat after returning from a trip.
If you suspect that you have a bed bug infestation in your home, you should act quickly and contact a professional pest control service. Do not try to treat the problem yourself with over-the-counter products, as they may be ineffective or harmful. A professional pest control service can assess the extent of the infestation, apply the appropriate treatment, and monitor the results.
Conclusion
Bed bugs are a serious and growing problem in Kentucky, affecting three major cities and potentially many more. They are not only a nuisance, but also a health hazard and a source of stress. To prevent and treat bed bug infestations, it is important to be aware, careful, and proactive. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can protect yourself and your family from these unwanted pests