New York City has earned the dubious distinction of being America’s second most bed bug-infested city, as reported in Orkin’s 2024 Top 50 Bed Bug Cities List. The city ranks just behind Chicago, which holds the top spot for the fourth consecutive year, with Philadelphia following closely in third place.
This ranking is determined by the volume of bed bug treatments carried out by Orkin across residential and commercial properties from December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023.
Bed bugs, known for their resilience and ability to hitchhike on personal belongings like luggage and furniture, pose significant challenges for both travelers and residents. Despite their visibility to the naked eye, bed bugs are adept at hiding, necessitating professional intervention at the first sign of an infestation. The rapid reproduction rate of female bed bugs, capable of laying 200 to 500 eggs in their lifetime, underscores the urgency of addressing infestations promptly.
In addition to the health and comfort concerns posed by bed bugs, New York City’s struggle with these pests reflects a broader trend of increasing bed bug appearances worldwide, including notable outbreaks in places like Paris during Fashion Week. The global nature of this issue has implications for travelers and residents alike, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to prevent infestations.
Orkin’s recommendations for preventing bed bug infestations include regular home inspections, reducing clutter, and carefully examining secondhand furniture. For travelers, the S.L.E.E.P. acronym offers guidance on inspecting for bed bugs in hotel rooms and managing luggage to avoid bringing these pests home.
The rising bed bug issue in New York City, with a reported 17% increase in complaints last year, highlights the ongoing battle against these persistent pests. As cities like New York continue to grapple with bed bug infestations, the importance of awareness, prevention, and professional pest control cannot be overstated