Bed bugs are tiny insects that can cause big problems, and right now, five cities in Vermont are struggling to control a major outbreak. These pests are making life uncomfortable for many people, especially in places where lots of people live close together, like apartments and dorms.
Let’s take a closer look at which cities are affected, what’s being done, and how you can protect yourself from these itchy intruders.
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood. They usually bite people while they sleep, and their bites can cause itchy red spots. Although they don’t spread diseases, bed bugs are very hard to get rid of once they infest a home.
5 Vermont Cities Facing a Bed Bug Crisis
Right now, these five cities in Vermont are seeing the worst of the bed bug problem:
1. Burlington
As the state’s largest city, Burlington has seen a sharp increase in complaints from residents, especially in rental apartments. Health officials are working with landlords to address the issue.
2. Rutland
Rutland’s housing department has been handling multiple reports, with efforts to educate the public and help residents treat their homes.
3. Barre
This city has launched community workshops to teach people how to detect bed bugs early and how to safely treat infestations.
4. St. Johnsbury
Local pest control services have reported a rise in calls from worried homeowners and renters.
5. Montpelier
Even the state capital is not immune. City leaders are discussing stronger housing inspection rules to prevent the spread of bed bugs.
Why Is the Problem So Bad?
Experts say that several things are causing the outbreak. Warmer weather, increased travel, and a lack of knowledge about early signs are all contributing. Once bed bugs move into a building, they spread quickly through walls, furniture, and even people’s clothes or bags.
What Are Cities Doing to Fight Back?
The affected cities are stepping up pest control measures. Some actions include:
Free inspections in apartment complexes
Community education on prevention
Helping low-income families pay for pest control
Stronger rules for landlords to fix infestations quickly
How You Can Protect Yourself from Bed Bugs
Even if you live outside these cities, it’s smart to be careful. Here are simple steps to avoid bed bugs:
Don’t bring home used furniture without checking it carefully
Wash clothes after traveling
Look for small reddish spots or bugs in bed seams and mattresses
If you think you have bed bugs, call a pest control expert quickly
Bed bugs are a growing problem in Vermont, but with awareness, quick action, and help from city officials, the outbreak can be managed. If you live in or near one of the affected cities, stay alert and don’t ignore signs of an infestation. Acting early can save a lot of trouble later.
SOURCES
[1] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/06/10/insect-invasion-5-wyoming-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/
[2] https://allergytechnologies.com/assets/default/BedBugAuthorityArchives.pdf
[3] https://pulaskipestcontrol.com/2025/04/10/from-infestation-to-elimination-bed-bug-behavior-and-the-power-of-aprehend-biopesticide-in-vermont/
[4] https://www.domyown.com/bed-bugs-c-39.html?page=all
[5] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
