Columbus 7th In Nation For Bedbug Infestations

It is an infestation not seen since the end of World War II. Columbus ranks high among America's most infested cities.

We are talking about bedbugs. These itchy, hard-to-eradicate pests are quickly spreading across Central Ohio.

In May, NBC 4 introduced viewers to the Clegg family. Their small Oakland Park apartment became overrun with bedbugs just months after moving in.

Now, a shocking new study by pest control company Terminix ranks Columbus seventh among U.S. cities with widespread bedbug infestations. Cincinnati ranked fourth, and Dayton came in eighth.

Despite the invasive nature of bedbugs, many Central Ohioans are oblivious to the problem.

"Actually, I know nothing. I only hope I don't have them. I haven't seen them in my home. Can you see them?" asked Andrea Davis.

"I've heard it on the headlines but not necessarily known that it was a serious problem," replied Louise Tawney.

Working to put an end to the bedbug problem locally are members of the Central Ohio Bedbug Task Force.

Paul Wenning represents the Franklin County Health Dept. on the task force.

He tells NBC 4 he is not surprised Columbus ranks in the top 10.

"We are hearing about more places that either have a bedbug infestation or have had one and they've taken care of it. We know we have apartment complexes that have persistant infestations," stated Wenning.

Because of the bedbugs’ tendency to hitch rides from one location to the next, high-traffic areas, such as hotels, motels, airplanes and cruise ships, are especially susceptible to infestations.

Travelers should use the following tips to protect themselves from bedbugs:

• Check headboards, mattresses and box springs for bedbugs and the dark blood spots they leave behind.
• Hang all clothing. Leave nothing lying on the bed or furniture.
• Avoid unpacking clothing and storing your clothing in the hotel’s furniture drawers.
• Store baggage on a luggage rack as far from the bed as possible.
• Vacuum suitcases when returning, and immediately wash clothing in hot water

Consumers do not have to travel in order to bring a bedbug infestation into the home. According to Terminix data, reports of bedbug infestations in office buildings and retail shops are on the rise, and homeowners should use the following tips to protect themselves:

• Inspect furniture, antiques, used appliances or consignment items for signs of bedbugs before bringing them into the home.
• Never pick up used mattresses or furniture left curbside.
• Inspect clothing for bedbugs and wash (in hot water) new items in hot water after bringing them into the house.
• Use zippered encasements on infested mattresses and box springs.
• If you suspect you have bedbugs, have your home inspected by a trained professional. Bedbugs cannot be controlled by over-the-counter treatments.

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