Bed bugs are small, blood-sucking insects that can infest your home, hotel, or other places where you sleep. They are notoriously hard to get rid of, and can cause itchy bites, allergic reactions, and psychological distress. According to a recent report by Orkin, a pest control company, two Texas cities are among the top 50 in the U.S. for bed bug infestations: Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston.
Dallas-Fort Worth: The 17th Worst City for Bed Bugs
Dallas-Fort Worth ranked 17th on Orkin’s 2023 Top 50 Bed Bug Cities List, dropping one spot from the previous year. The metroplex is a major travel hub, with the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport being the fourth busiest airport in the world. This means that many travelers may unknowingly bring bed bugs with them from other infested areas, or pick them up from hotels, motels, or Airbnb rentals in the city.
Orkin advises travelers to inspect their luggage, clothing, and bedding for signs of bed bugs, such as live or dead bugs, eggs, fecal stains, or shed skins. They also recommend using a luggage rack or placing bags in the bathtub, rather than on the floor or bed, to avoid contact with bed bugs. If you suspect that you have bed bugs in your home, you should contact a professional pest control service as soon as possible, as DIY methods are often ineffective or even dangerous.
Houston: The 44th Worst City for Bed Bugs
Houston ranked 44th on Orkin’s list, falling three spots from the previous year. The city is another major travel destination, with the George Bush Intercontinental Airport being the 15th busiest airport in the U.S. Houston is also home to many attractions, such as the Space Center, the Museum District, the Galleria, and the NRG Stadium, that draw visitors from all over the world. These visitors may unknowingly carry bed bugs with them, or encounter them in hotels, hostels, or couchsurfing sites.
Orkin advises travelers to check online reviews of their accommodation before booking, and to look for any complaints or reports of bed bugs. They also suggest using a flashlight to inspect the mattress, box spring, headboard, and furniture for any signs of bed bugs, and to avoid placing any personal items on the bed or floor. If you find any evidence of bed bugs, you should notify the management and request a different room, or find another place to stay. If you think that you have bed bugs in your home, you should call a professional pest control service as soon as possible, as bed bugs can multiply rapidly and spread to other rooms or buildings.
Conclusion
Bed bugs are a serious problem that can affect anyone, regardless of where they live or travel. They are not a sign of poor hygiene or cleanliness, but rather a result of human mobility and globalization. Two Texas cities, Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston, are among the top 50 in the U.S. for bed bug infestations, according to Orkin. Travelers should be aware of the risks and take precautions to avoid bringing bed bugs home with them, or encountering them in their accommodation.
Homeowners should act quickly and seek professional help if they suspect that they have bed bugs, as they are very difficult to eradicate without expert assistance. By being vigilant and proactive, we can prevent the spread of these pests and protect ourselves and our loved ones from their bites and effects.