Tiny bloodsucking insects known as bed bugs can irritate skin, trigger allergies, and create psychological anguish. They are a problem in homes, hotels, and sleeping quarters. They don’t spread disease, but because they can live for months without food and conceal themselves in crevices, getting rid of them is difficult.
According to a recent study by the pest management business Orkin, Georgia is among the states with the highest rates of bed bug infestations. Based on the treatments given, the report ranks the cities; Atlanta is ranked No. 9, Savannah is ranked No. 28, and Augusta is ranked No. 45.
What factors lead to the high frequency of bed bugs in Georgia?
There could be several reasons:
Climate: Georgia’s mild winters and warm, muggy weather make it the perfect place for bed bugs to proliferate all year round.
Travel: Georgia welcomes a lot of visitors and business travelers, many of whom may unintentionally bring bed bugs from areas where they are prevalent, especially with the busy Atlanta airport.
Population: Bed bugs are common in multi-family housing, such as apartments, condos, and dorms, where there are over 10 million inhabitants and crowded urban regions.
Awareness: The discovery and treatment of bed bugs are delayed when people are unaware of the symptoms and signs of the infestation and are reluctant to report or seek professional assistance.
Georgia’s strategies for preventing and managing bed bug infestations
The Department of Public Health (DPH) of Georgia suggests:
- Examine: Frequently look for indications of bed bugs in sleeping spaces. Examine your personal belongings and luggage both before and after your trip.
- Protect: To avoid bed bugs, use interceptors, encasements, or other tools. Bedding, clothes, and textiles should be washed and dried on high heat.
- Treat: If an infestation is present, do not attempt self-treatment; instead, call a certified pest management expert. Cooperate with them and heed their advice during the course of treatment.
- Instruct: Get information on bed bugs from reputable sources such as the EPA, CDC, or DPH. Inform others and notify the appropriate authorities about infestations.
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We can successfully prevent and control bed bug infestations in Georgia by raising public awareness and encouraging cooperation between the pest control sector, health authorities, and the general public.
