Once largely eradicated in the latter half of the 20th century, bed bugs have surged back with alarming vigor in recent years. These tiny, nocturnal pests are now widespread—capable of turning even the most vigilant households into infestation zones. Ohio, in particular, has emerged as a hotspot due to a mix of dense urban centers, travel corridors, and resilient pest populations. In this comprehensive examination, we spotlight five Ohio cities—Cleveland–Akron, Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton, and Toledo—as case studies in the statewide struggle to reclaim homes, rentals, and public spaces from the red menace.
Understanding Bed Bugs: What Makes Them a Problem
Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are small (about 4–5 mm), flat, reddish-brown insects that…..