Worst bed bug infections in the US are in Chicago city, according to new report by est control company Orkin
The company puts out a list each year that ranks the 50 worst bed bug cities in the United States. This year, Seattle jumped 14 spots, to 13th on the list.
Orkin, a pest control company that serves about 1.7 million customers nationwide, released a list of the top 50 cities where bedbugs did damage in 2012. Chicago topped the list, followed by Detroit, Los Angeles, and Denver. New York came in at number 10.
"This list shows that bed bugs continue to be a problem throughout the U.S.," said Orkin entomologist and Technical Services Director Ron Harrison , Ph.D. "Based on the diversity of cities on the list, we all need to be very cautious when we travel-whether it is business or pleasure, or to visit family, friends or vacation. We need to be vigilant wherever we are and take the proper precautions."
Orkin's parent company, Rollins, operates eight pest-control brands. Rollins saw a 33 percent jump in bed bug business last year, compared to 2011. The top 50 list is based on how much business the company received in a city during the past year, according to a press release.
Sites like the U.S. and Canada database Bed Bug Registry help travelers, homebuyers and renters see user-submitted reports of bedbugs. The City of Chicago, meanwhile,lists ways to file Department of Buildings and consumer fraud complaints as well as offering tips for buying mattresses.
Bed bugs can multiply quickly, so early detection is critical to preventing a larger infestation. And since infestations can be difficult to control, Orkin advises vigilance.
"Education and prevention are key," said Dr. Harrison. "Inspect your bedroom regularly, and be cautious when traveling. Adult bed bugs resemble apple seeds in size and color, while newly-hatched babies can be about the size of a pinhead and pale in color. Check mattress seams, sheets and furniture, behind baseboards, electrical outlet plates and picture frames."
Here is the Top 20 List of Worst Bed Bug Cities in the US:
1. Chicago (+1)
2. Detroit (+1)
3. Los Angeles (+2)
4. Denver
5. Cincinnati (-4)
6. Columbus, Ohio
7. Washington, D.C. (+1)
8. Cleveland/Akron/Canton (+5)
9. Dallas/Ft. Worth (-2)
10. New York (-1)
11. Dayton, Ohio (+4)
12. Richmond/Petersburg, Va. (-2)
13. Seattle/Tacoma (+14)
14. San Francisco/Oakland/San Jose (-2)
15. Raleigh/Durham/Fayetteville, N.C. (+4)
16. Indianapolis (+15)
17. Omaha, Neb. (+11)
18. Houston (-7)
19. Milwaukee (+13)
20. Baltimore (-2)
