Maine is currently facing a growing concern with bed bug infestations across several cities. While the problem is not as severe as it was a few years ago, recent reports indicate a slight uptick in bed bug cases throughout the state. Here’s a look at five Maine cities that are actively combating the bed bug onslaught:
Augusta
The state capital has been dealing with bed bug issues for some time. In 2017, Augusta passed emergency rules to address a bedbug infestation at a pair of boarding houses. These measures were implemented to quickly respond to the problem and prevent its spread to other areas of the city.
Biddeford
Recently, Biddeford Middle School officials alerted parents after a bed bug was discovered in a classroom. This incident highlights the importance of vigilance in educational institutions and the need for prompt action to prevent infestations from taking hold.
Camden
Camden Hills Regional School administrators have taken proactive steps by hiring pest control professionals after a bed bug was found in a classroom. This swift response demonstrates the seriousness with which schools are treating potential infestations.
Portland
As Maine’s largest city, Portland has not been immune to bed bug problems. While not specifically mentioned in recent reports, the city’s higher population density makes it more susceptible to infestations. Local pest control companies in Southern Maine, including Portland, report higher levels of bed bug activity compared to other parts of the state.
Auburn
Auburn, along with other cities in Maine, has been experiencing bed bug issues. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension, based in part in Auburn, has been actively involved in educating the public about bed bug prevention and control.
Statewide Efforts
Across Maine, various initiatives are being implemented to combat bed bugs:
- Education: The Maine CDC and Department of Education have developed a School Guide to help educational institutions deal with bed bug incidents.
- Legislation: Maine has enacted laws (Title 14 §6021-A) requiring landlords to promptly address bed bug complaints and implement control measures.
- Professional Services: Companies like Maine Bed Bugs and Pest Control are offering specialized heat treatments to eliminate bed bug infestations without using chemicals.
- Public Awareness: Pest management specialists like Jim Dill from the University of Maine Cooperative Extension are working to raise awareness about bed bug prevention, especially for travelers.
- Monitoring: While no Maine city has been ranked among the worst bed bug-infested cities in the U.S., officials are staying vigilant and monitoring the situation closely.
Despite these efforts, bed bugs remain a persistent problem in Maine. The insects’ ability to hitchhike on luggage, clothing, and other items makes them particularly challenging to control.
As Maine continues to see increased travel and movement of people, especially post-pandemic, the risk of bed bug spread remains a concern for cities across the state.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to be vigilant, especially when traveling, and to report any suspected bed bug activity promptly.
By combining professional pest control services, public education, and preventive measures, Maine’s cities are working diligently to keep the bed bug problem under control and protect their communities from these persistent pests.
Sources:
- [1] https://wgme.com/news/local/its-not-pleasant-but-bed-bugs-are-part-of-maine-life-hartford-sumner-elementary-school-infestations-cdc-university-of-maine-cooperative-extension
- [2] https://fox23maine.com/topic/Bed%20bug
- [3] https://www.mainebedbugsandpestcontrol.com
- [4] https://www.bangordailynews.com/2023/02/16/homestead/not-pleasant-but-bed-bugs-part-of-maine-life-n6hjn1me0n/