With the Fourth of July falling on a Thursday this year, many Idahoans are turning the holiday into an extended weekend getaway. AAA predicts that nearly 71 million Americans will be traveling to celebrate with fireworks, friends, and barbecues. About 400,000 of these travelers will be Idahoans.
This year, Idahoans are flocking to popular destinations like Anaheim, Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Hawaii, Orlando, Anchorage, Salt Lake City, the Oregon Coast, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton. However, some of these top spots are also infamous for their bed bug infestations.
How Dangerous Are Bed Bugs?
While bed bugs are certainly unpleasant, they are more of a nuisance than a health threat. According to the CDC, you might not even realize you’ve been bitten because bed bugs inject an anesthetic and anticoagulant while feeding.
The bites often swell or become itchy within a couple of days, much like mosquito bites. However, the discomfort from bed bug bites can lead to insomnia and anxiety.
Why Are Bed Bugs a Travel Concern?
Traveling to areas with high bed bug infestations increases the risk of bringing these pests back home. Bed bugs are small and can hide in luggage seams, clothing folds, and even pillowcases. They can survive for long periods without feeding, waiting until you unpack to infest your home.
Bed bugs don’t discriminate; they can be found in five-star hotels as well as homeless shelters and college dorms. This makes it crucial to be vigilant, regardless of where you stay.
How to Detect Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are tiny and can be difficult to spot. They hide in luggage, clothing, cracks, crevices, headboards, and even behind wallpaper. The most obvious signs of an infestation are rusty-colored blood spots on mattresses or furniture, molted exoskeletons, or a sweet, musty odor.
Idaho’s Favorite Vacation Spots and Bed Bug Rankings
Orkin’s annual bed bug report ranks cities based on the number of bed bug treatments performed between December 1, 2022, and November 30, 2023. Here’s how some favorite Idahoan vacation spots rank for bed bugs:
- Orlando: Known for its spectacular fireworks shows, Orlando is the sixth most popular destination for Idahoans but ranks 46th for bed bugs.
- Seattle: Famous for the Seafair 4th of July celebration, Seattle is the second most favored destination but ranks 44th for bed bugs.
- Las Vegas: The third most popular destination for Idahoans, Las Vegas appears on the bed bug report for the first time, ranking 35th.
While Anaheim itself doesn’t appear on the bed bug list, nearby Los Angeles, just 26 miles away, ranks 5th for bed bugs.
When planning your trip, it’s essential to be aware of bed bug signs to avoid bringing them home. Check mattresses, furniture, and the room for any signs of these pests. Being vigilant can help ensure a bed bug-free return.