North Dakota is facing a growing bed bug problem, with several cities reporting increased infestations. Here are five North Dakota cities currently combating a bed bug onslaught:
1. Fargo
Fargo tops the list as North Dakota’s most bed bug-infested city. A recent study ranked Fargo at #59 among the worst cities for bed bug infestations in the United States. The city has reported 13 total infestations, including:
- Sunset Motel
- Red River Lodge
- Grand Inn
- Motel 6
- Super 8 Fargo
- 8 private residences
2. Minot
Minot has seen a significant increase in bed bug reports. The First District Health Unit has received numerous reports from Ward County, where Minot is located. Confirmed infestations include:
- Vegas Motel
- A private residence
3. Bismarck
The state capital has also been affected by bed bugs. While not as severely impacted as Fargo, Bismarck still made the list of top 500 U.S. cities for bed bug infestations, ranking at #302. Reported cases include:
- At least one private residence
4. Grand Forks
Grand Forks has experienced its share of bed bug problems, with two recorded infestations:
- Quality Inn
- A private residence
5. Jamestown
Jamestown has also reported bed bug issues, specifically:
- Days Inn
Combating the Infestation
North Dakota cities are taking steps to address the bed bug problem:
- Increased awareness: Public health departments are educating residents about bed bug prevention and identification.
- Professional pest control: Cities are encouraging residents to consult pest control professionals for effective treatments.
- Travel precautions: Residents are advised to inspect hotel rooms and luggage when traveling to prevent bringing bed bugs home.
- Proper cleaning techniques: Health officials recommend thorough cleaning, including vacuuming and scrubbing infested surfaces.
- Structural modifications: Sealing cracks and crevices in walls and floors to eliminate hiding spots for bed bugs.
The bed bug resurgence in North Dakota is part of a broader trend across the United States. Experts attribute this increase to factors such as increased travel, lack of awareness about prevention, and growing resistance to pesticides. While bed bugs don’t typically spread diseases, they can significantly impact public health and quality of life.
As North Dakota cities continue to grapple with this issue, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, report infestations promptly, and work with local health authorities to implement effective control measures.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://keyzradio.com/bed-bug-infestations-north-dakota-montana/
[2] https://keyzradio.com/these-north-dakota-towns-are-crawling-with-bed-bugs/
[3] https://us1033.com/new-study-shows-one-north-dakota-city-is-crawling-with-bed-bugs/
[4] https://walshcountynd.com/county-government/public-health-and-wic/bed-bugs/
