Walt Disney World’s Hometown Ranks as One of the 50 Worst Cities for Bed Bugs

This is not a great honor for Orlando, Florida, the city in which Walt Disney World Resort calls home.

Orlando, Florida, has been recently ranked by Orkin as one of the top 50 worst cities in the United States for bed bug infestations. This unfortunate distinction places Orlando at the 46th spot on the list, indicating a growing concern for residents and visitors alike. With an increase of one spot from its previous ranking, the city’s bed bug problem demands attention and action.

Related: Guest Allegedly Reports BED BUGS at Disney Resort

Credit: Pixar Animation Studios

Unwelcome Visitors Call Disney’s City Home

Bed bugs, scientifically known as Cimex lectularius, are small parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are notorious for their ability to infest various spaces, including homes, hotels, and public spaces. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers bed bugs a public health concern due to their impact on human well-being and quality of life.

The rise of bed bugs in Orlando emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in pest control and public health initiatives. The presence of these pests not only causes physical discomfort but also raises concerns regarding disease control and environmental protection. Integrated pest management techniques, which incorporate a combination of prevention, monitoring, and treatment methods, play a crucial role in combating bed bug infestations.

One of the primary issues with bed bugs is their ability to spread rapidly, making it challenging to eradicate infestations completely. Bed bug bites can result in allergic reactions, skin irritation, and even psychological stress for some individuals. The bedbug bites often leave behind itchy bite marks, causing discomfort and sleep disturbances. Therefore, addressing the bed bug problem in Orlando is not only a matter of pest control but also crucial for maintaining the overall health and well-being of the community.

Credit: Nicholas Fuentes on Unsplash

To effectively tackle a bed bug infestation, it is essential to locate their hiding places. Bed bugs are known to seek shelter in various areas, with a preference for mattresses, box springs, and furniture. By inspecting these common hiding spots, individuals can identify the presence of bed bugs and take prompt action. It is advisable to thoroughly examine the seams and crevices of mattresses, as well as the cracks and crevices of furniture.

Should Orlando Be Worried?

It’s not only Orlando that is facing a bed bug crisis. Many other major cities are suffering from the same phenomenon. With post Covid-19 travel back to normal, it is easier than ever for people to unknowingly spread these bugs to different cities and hotels.

The top 50 cities for bed bugs are as follows;

1. Chicago
2. New York
3. Philadelphia
4. Cleveland-Akron, OH
5. Los Angeles
6. Detroit
7. Washington, D.C. (+2)
8. Indianapolis (-1)
9. Charlotte (+5)
10. Champaign, IL (+1)
11. Columbus, OH (-1)
12. Cincinnati (+1)
13. Atlanta (+3)
14. Grand Rapids, MI (-2)
15. Denver
16. Baltimore (-8)
17. Richmond, VA (+9)
18. Greensboro, N.C. (+25)
19. St. Louis (+6)
20. Youngstown (+7)
21. Pittsburgh (-3)
22. Dallas-Ft. Worth (-5)
23. Flint, MI (-2)
24. Raleigh-Durham (-4)
25. Milwaukee (+15)
26. Charleston, W.V. (-7)
27. Greenville, SC (-3)
28. Norfolk, VA (-5)
29. Davenport (+8)
30. Nashville (+3)
31. Tampa (+10)
32. Toledo (+6)
33. Dayton, OH (+1)
34. Knoxville (-4)
35. Las Vegas (new to list)
36. Omaha, NE (-4)
37. South Bend, IN (-9)
38. Houston (+6)
39. Cedar Rapids, MI (-8)
40. Ft. Wayne, IN (-5)
41. San Francisco (-19)
42. Buffalo, NY (-13)
43. Harrisburg (-7)
44. Seattle (-5)
45. Miami
46. Orlando (+1)
47. Minneapolis (new to list)
48. Oklahoma City (new to list)
49. Louisville, KY
50. Lexington, KY (-4)

In addition to individual efforts on this issue, the collaboration between pest control professionals and government agencies is vital in implementing effective bed bug control strategies. Education and awareness campaigns are also integral components of addressing the bed bug issue. By spreading information about bed bug prevention, detection, and treatment, communities can empower individuals to take proactive measures. Consumer education regarding early detection, reporting, and appropriate treatment methods is essential for preventing bed bug infestations from spreading further.

Credit: Disney

Furthermore, the cooperation and involvement of the hospitality industry are crucial in combating bed bugs in a city like Orlando, which is heavily reliant on tourism. Hotels and accommodations, including those at Walt Disney World Resort, must have stringent protocols in place to prevent and address bed bug infestations promptly. Regular inspections, proper hygiene practices, and effective pest control measures can negate the risk of bed bug encounters for guests.

Orlando’s ranking as one of the 50 worst cities for bed bugs highlights the pressing need for concerted efforts in pest control and public health. Taking a proactive approach, implementing integrated pest management strategies, and promoting bedbug education and awareness are essential steps in mitigating the bed bug problem.