Bed bugs, the persistent and elusive pests, are making an unwelcome resurgence across Wisconsin. While Milwaukee stands out as the state’s most afflicted city, communities throughout Wisconsin are stepping up efforts to combat these blood-sucking invaders. Here’s how five cities—Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Appleton, and Eau Claire—are responding to the bed bug challenge.
1. Milwaukee: Wisconsin’s Bed Bug Epicenter
Milwaukee has earned the dubious distinction of being the most bed bug-infested city in Wisconsin, ranking 25th nationwide in Orkin’s 2024 list, a jump of 15 spots from the previous year. The city’s dense population, transient housing, and high rate of travel contribute to the problem. Local authorities and pest control companies are urging residents to:
- Inspect mattresses, headboards, and furniture regularly
- Avoid bringing in second-hand furniture without thorough checks
- Report infestations to landlords or property managers immediately
Orkin and city officials emphasize the importance of early detection and professional intervention, as bed bugs are increasingly resistant to over-the-counter pesticides.
2. Madison: Proactive Community Response
Madison, while not as severely affected as Milwaukee, faces ongoing bed bug challenges due to its university population and high rental turnover. The city’s Building Inspection department provides resources for both tenants and landlords, stressing:
- Fastidious cleaning and decluttering to reduce hiding spots
- Shared responsibility between landlords and tenants for eradication
- Professional inspections and treatments, including heat and steam methods
Madison pest control services offer same-day inspections and advocate for preventive measures such as mattress encasements and regular monitoring.
3. Green Bay: Task Force and Public Education
Green Bay and the broader Brown County area have seen a notable increase in bed bug reports over the past decade. In response, local experts, including entomologists from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, have formed a Bed Bug Task Force focused on:
- Raising public awareness about bed bug biology and prevention
- Discouraging unsafe DIY treatments, which can worsen infestations
- Promoting responsible disposal of infested furniture to prevent spread
The task force emphasizes that bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene and can infest any home, making vigilance and education key tools in the fight.
4. Appleton: Community Partnerships and Prevention
Appleton, while not highlighted in national rankings, has experienced sporadic outbreaks, particularly in multi-unit housing and hotels. Local health departments collaborate with pest management professionals to:
- Educate residents about signs of infestation and safe travel practices
- Encourage prompt reporting and coordinated treatment in apartment complexes
- Offer guidance on avoiding used furniture and effective laundering techniques
Prevention campaigns are especially active during summer travel months, when bed bug introductions are most common.
5. Eau Claire: Early Detection and Tenant Rights
Eau Claire’s approach centers on empowering tenants and property owners with information. The city disseminates materials on:
- Early detection strategies, such as inspecting luggage and bedding after travel
- The importance of not discarding infested items curbside, which can spread bugs
- Legal responsibilities: In Wisconsin, landlords are typically responsible for bed bug removal unless they can prove tenant negligence
Local extension offices advise multiple follow-up treatments by professionals for severe infestations and stress that bed bugs can survive up to a year without feeding, making eradication a persistent challenge.
Statewide Trends and Best Practices
- Heat treatment is widely regarded as the most effective eradication method, with steam and professional chemical treatments also used.
- Public education and community cooperation are essential, as bed bugs easily spread between units and properties.
- Travel precautions—such as inspecting hotel rooms and laundering clothes in hot water after trips—are strongly recommended to prevent new infestations.
While Milwaukee is currently Wisconsin’s bed bug hotspot, cities across the state are not immune. Through community education, professional pest control, and coordinated public health efforts, Wisconsin’s cities are fighting back against the bed bug onslaught. Vigilance, early detection, and shared responsibility remain the cornerstones of effective bed bug management in the Badger State.
Sources:
- https://b100quadcities.com/wisconsin-has-one-of-the-most-bed-bug-infested-cities-in-the-u-s/
- https://datcp.wi.gov/Documents/BedBugsWI.pdf
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2023-01-12-one-wisconsin-city-among-the-worst-for-bed-bugs/
- https://www.cityofmadison.com/dpced/bi/documents/Bed%20bugs%20web%20.pdf
- https://www.rovepestcontrol.com/locations/wisconsin/madison-pest-control/bed-bug-control/
