Bed bugs aren’t a unique problem. These tiny insects are found everywhere, but Hamilton is in a bit of a pickle. Results from a 2018 study puts the city at No. 7 on their list of top bed bug infested cities.

It’s an unsavory designation, no doubt; however, a rather important one to receive so the problem can be addressed. After all, every solution begins with problem identification.  

Hamilton’s Bed Bug Woes

The infestation isn’t a new or sudden occurrence; in fact, there has been public concern over the rise of bed bugs since 2006 within Hamilton. The bugs don’t discriminate between class or housing; they find small spaces to occupy and make it their home. Add in their mating and eating habits, and they become notoriously difficult to eradicate.

Aside from the bugs’ characteristics, Hamilton’s problems also stem from its housing structure and density. When an infestation occurs, bugs may avoid treatment by running off to surrounding apartments or housing structures. This notion is also supported by the report itself. As cities with higher population densities were more intensely affected by bed bugs. The top infested cities included:

1. Toronto
2. Winnipeg
3. St. Johns
4. Vancouver
5. Halifax
6. Ottawa
7. Hamilton

That said, it should be remembered that the study obtains its results through residential and commercial treatments conducted within cities in 2018. By no means is this a bed bug population consensus; it simply provides a rough idea of just how deep the problem is.

Understanding the Pest

Part of the problem is a lack of understanding regarding how bed bugs grow and spread. A misconception is that untidy and unsanitary conditions attract these pesky insects, but that’s far from reality.

Bed bugs prey on humans regardless of hygiene. A clutter-free environment is encouraged to remove places these bugs can hide, but targeting house sanitation isn’t enough for these insects. The recommendation is to be aware of what you’re bringing home. Items like clothing, luggage, sheets, and furniture can easily lead to a spread. The bugs can hitchhike onto anything. Best to routinely check small spaces within your home and ensure thorough cleaning of all new items you bring in your home. Your individual efforts can help keep infestations at bay through early detection of the problem.

City-Wide Solutions

Hamilton requires a robust plan to manage its bug problems. For the moment, there is hope. The acceleration is seen as two-fold wherein the increase in bed bug treatments is also seen as more individuals recognizing and seeking out solutions.

The city management took up training more than 300 property management staff about integrated pest identification and management solutions. It also reportedly has provided 48 residential bed bug treatments and provided an additional 66 residents with bed bug-related consultation.

Moreover, efforts to inform citizens through the distribution of posters and educational videos have been made regarding effective ways to prevent, identify and seek out resolutions regarding bed bug infestations.

Lastly, the city has set up an Effort Trust wherein 8000 rental units around Hamilton are inspected to understand the problem from the ground level. This would help understand how and why the spread happens and the methods which can be effectively used to cater to the city’s problems.

The Conclusion

Hamilton has a long road ahead before it effectively resolves its bed bug problem. Since bugs are so difficult to eradicate, prevention and early identification are key elements in this fight. The city continues to make its efforts, and you can too. Truly Nolen is here to offer consultation and comprehensive solutions for prevention and treatment. You can call now and get in touch with our highly trained staff to devise a plan and eliminate bed bugs from your property.