Who’s at Risk of Getting Bed Bugs in Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky

Exposure to environments such as hotels, schools, dormitories, office buildings, and movie theaters significantly increases the likelihood of a bed bug infestation. Bed bugs have been a growing concern since their resurgence in the 1990s, putting nearly everyone at risk. However, the highest risk applies to:

Recent Travelers
College Students
Used Furniture Buyers
Anyone who has visited an Infested Area

The Risk of Bed Bugs in Hotels

The surge in international travel has contributed to a rise in bed bug infestations in hotels. Hotels offer ideal conditions for these pests, with a constant supply of hosts. Even when a room sits empty, bed bugs can migrate to neighboring areas, potentially resulting in widespread infestation throughout the property.

To reduce the risk of bringing home bed bugs from a hotel, start by researching the property and reading guest reviews. Once in the room, inspect the mattress and furniture for signs of pests. Keep your luggage elevated or place it in the bathtub to keep it out of reach of bed bugs.

Bed Bug Problems in Universities

Universities are especially vulnerable to bed bug infestations due to the constant turnover of students from around the globe. These pests can appear at any time of year and are commonly found in beds, upholstered furniture, baseboards, dressers, and clothing. Given the prevalence of second-hand furnishings in student housing, routine inspections are crucial.

Bed Bugs and Dorm Rooms

Much like hotels, dormitories are highly susceptible to bed bug infestations due to high occupancy and close living arrangements. Early detection and prompt reporting are essential to prevent widespread issues. When students return home for holidays or summer break, be sure their luggage is carefully cleaned before storing it.

How to Avoid Bed Bugs in College

Proactive measures are essential for college students to prevent bed bug infestations. Recognizing the early warning signs and reporting potential issues promptly can help contain the problem. Given how easily bed bugs can move between dorm rooms, immediate attention is critical. Maintaining a clean living space, using mattress encasements, and practicing caution during travel are all effective prevention strategies.

Can College Students Bring Bed Bugs Home?

Absolutely. It’s common for bed bug infestations to start when students return home from college during breaks. To minimize the risk, students should be cautious when packing, particularly if the luggage has been used for previous travel. Once home, all clothing should be laundered in hot water, suitcases should be steam cleaned, and luggage should be stored off the ground.

Why Anyone Can Get Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are not selective and will inhabit any environment that offers access to a host. Remarkably, they can survive up to a year without a blood meal. As opportunistic travelers, they often move unnoticed to new areas, where they can establish fresh infestations.

Even if you believe you’re not at risk for bed bugs, it’s still important to recognize the signs of an infestation and take steps to prevent one. If you have frequent visitors or college students at home, working with a professional bed bug exterminator is a smart way to stay protected.

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