Minnesota, known for its lakes and natural beauty, is now grappling with a less welcome distinction: a surge in bed bug infestations. In 2024, eight Minnesota cities landed on national lists tracking the worst places for bed bugs, with five cities standing out for both their high rankings and proactive responses to the crisis. Here’s how Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Rochester, and Duluth are fighting back against the bed bug onslaught.
Minneapolis: The New Epicenter
For the first time, Minneapolis broke into Orkin’s Top 50 Bed Bug Cities, ranking 47th in the nation. The city’s dense urban environment, numerous hotels, and high population mobility make it particularly vulnerable. Local pest control companies have reported a sharp increase in calls, prompting the city and businesses to ramp up education and prevention efforts. Pest experts in Minneapolis are deploying advanced heat treatments and biological controls, which use targeted spores to kill bed bugs, as well as preventive inspections and mattress encasements.
St. Paul: Doubling Down on Detection
St. Paul, Minnesota’s capital, also made the national list, ranking 43rd in the country for bed bug prevalence. The city has focused on early detection, with pest management professionals using canine inspection teams that can sniff out even the smallest infestations. St. Paul’s strategy includes public awareness campaigns and close coordination with property owners, especially in multi-unit housing, to ensure rapid containment and treatment.
Bloomington: Hotels and Hospitality on High Alert
Bloomington, home to the Mall of America and a major hospitality hub, ranked 112th nationally. Given its large number of hotels and visitors, the city has prioritized training for hotel staff to spot early signs of bed bugs—such as blood spots, eggs, and droppings—and to respond quickly to guest complaints. Local ordinances require property owners to act promptly when infestations are discovered, and pest control firms offer same-day inspections and treatments to minimize disruption to the tourism industry.
Rochester: Health Sector Mobilizes
Rochester, ranked 134th, is a medical destination thanks to the Mayo Clinic. The influx of patients and visitors increases the risk of bed bugs hitchhiking into the city. Rochester’s response includes strict protocols in hotels and healthcare accommodations, frequent room inspections, and collaboration with pest control experts for rapid intervention. The city also emphasizes public education, teaching residents and travelers how to spot and prevent infestations.
Duluth: Community-Wide Prevention
Duluth, at 149th on the list, has taken a community-wide approach to prevention and control. City officials and pest management companies have launched outreach programs in schools, apartment complexes, and shelters. Residents are encouraged to report sightings early, and the city provides guidance on do-it-yourself measures, such as vacuuming, sealing cracks, and using mattress covers. Heat treatments, which kill bed bugs in all life stages, are commonly used in both residential and commercial settings.
Why the Surge?
Bed bugs, once nearly eradicated in the U.S., have resurged due to increased travel, resistance to common pesticides, and the bugs’ knack for hiding in luggage and furniture. They are not a sign of poor hygiene and can infest even the cleanest homes and hotels. Their bites can cause allergic reactions ranging from mild irritation to severe rashes or hives.
Combating the Onslaught: Best Practices
Across these cities, a mix of professional and do-it-yourself strategies is being deployed:
- Heat Treatments: Raising room temperatures to levels lethal to bed bugs, often used in hotels and large infestations.
- Biological Controls: Introducing spores that specifically target bed bugs.
- Preventive Inspections: Regular checks, especially in multi-unit buildings and hotels.
- Education: Public campaigns on how to spot signs of bed bugs and avoid bringing them home from travel.
- Integrated Pest Management: Combining chemical, non-chemical, and physical methods for thorough eradication.
Looking Ahead
While Minnesota’s bed bug problem is significant, the state’s cities are not among the nation’s top ten worst, and their proactive responses offer hope. With continued vigilance, education, and innovation in pest control, these communities aim to turn the tide against the bed bug invasion and restore peace of mind for residents and visitors alike.
Sources:
- https://kroc.com/bed-bugs-in-minnesota/
- https://krocnews.com/eight-minnesota-cities-included-on-2024s-worst-for-bed-bugs-list/
- https://www.orkin.com/press-room/2024-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs
- https://b105country.com/minneapolis-bed-bug-infested-2024/
- https://www.rovepestcontrol.com/locations/minnesota/minneapolis-st-paul-pest-control/bed-bugs/
