Bed bugs are a real-life nightmare, and sometimes what’s crawling inside your bed is scarier than the possibility of something existing under it.
Those elusive and unwelcome houseguests, have become a persistent problem in several cities across the United States. Among these, three Illinois cities stand out as hotspots for bed bug infestations. Let’s delve into the details of these cities and the challenges they face in combating these tiny but tenacious pests.
Three Illinois Cities Have the Most Bed Bugs
According to pest control company Orkin, three Illinois cities have the most bed bugs in the entire country:
Chicago: Topping the list, Chicago has the worst problems with bed bugs. For the third consecutive year, Chicago has claimed the top spot on Orkin’s Top 50 Bed Bug Cities List. The ranking is based on data from metropolitan areas where Orkin performed the most bed bug treatments from December 1, 2021 to November 30, 2022
Champaign: Champaign moved up from No. 13 last year to No. 11 on the list. Residents should remain vigilant and take preventive measures to combat bed bug infestations. Ranked 11th, Champaign also faces bed bug challenges. Vigilance and preventive measures are crucial to combat these pests.
Peoria: Peoria, ranked at No. 48, faces bed bug issues as well. It’s essential for residents and travelers to be cautious and prevent infestations.
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Facts Regarding Bed Bugs in Illinois
In Illinois, there are cases of bed bugs in several state regions. With 29% of all cases in the United States that have been reported, the Southeast has the largest percentage.
The Midwest region, accounting for 21% of the cases, is not far behind. 15% of bed bug incidences occur in the Southwest, whereas 19% occur in the West.
As one moves east, the Northeast region has the lowest incidence, accounting for only 5% of all cases nationwide, while the Mid-Atlantic region reports 11% of instances.
These figures show how different areas of Illinois have different rates of bed bug infestations, with the Southeast and Midwest showing the highest concentrations.
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Understanding Bed Bug Prevention Techniques Is Important
Before taking action, ensure that you’re dealing with bed bugs and not other pests like fleas or ticks. Consult with local experts or utilize pictures for accurate identification.
Stay Calm: Dealing with bed bugs can be daunting, but it’s manageable. Resist the urge to discard all your belongings; most can be treated effectively.
Effective Treatment Methods: Rather than resorting immediately to pesticides, consider integrated pest management (IPM) techniques. If pesticides are necessary, always follow instructions carefully or seek professional assistance.
Minimize Hiding Spots: Clear clutter from your living space, as bed bugs thrive in messy environments. Invest in specialized bed bug covers (encasements) for your mattress and box spring to prevent infestations.
Regularly Launder and Heat-Dry Bedding: Ensure that bed sheets, blankets, and any clothing in contact with the floor are laundered regularly. Don’t forget to clean laundry containers, as bed bugs and their eggs can hide there too.
Exercise Caution with Extreme Temperatures: While freezing may not be entirely effective for bed bug control, heat treatment requires specific equipment and high temperatures to be successful.
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To Conclude
In Illinois, bed bugs are a frequent issue, especially in Chicago, Champaign, and Peoria. Fighting these bloodsucking parasites requires knowledge of preventive methods and the prevalence of infestation in various areas.
Residents can drastically lower the danger of bed bug infestations by maintaining composure, using integrated pest management strategies, avoiding clutter, and routinely cleaning bedding.
Remember that the secret to a successful eradication is early discovery and expert assistance. Don’t allow these little nightmares to invade your sleep. Take initiative to rid your house of bed bugs.
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