Grand Junction-Montrose Among Top 50 Bed Bug Cities

Tourism is a huge part of the Western Colorado economy and while we welcome the visitors and the money they spend, they can also bring along some unwanted hitchhikers, bed bugs.According to rankings released by Orkin, Grand Junction/Montrose, Colorado ranked 39th for the number of bed bug treatments in 2012. Other Colorado cities on the Top 50 Cities For Bed Bugs include Colorado Springs/Pueblo at #23 and Denver at #4. Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles and Cincinnati make up the rest of the top five. Las Vegas, Nevada had the biggest decrease dropping from 16th place in 2011 to 46th place in 2012.

Orkin reported a 33 percent increase in bed bug business compared to 2011. "This list shows that bed bugs continue to be a problem throughout the U.S.," Ron Harrison, Ph.D., Orkin entomologist and Technical Services Director said in a statement. "Based on the diversity of cities on the list, we all need to be very cautious when we travel -- whether it is business or pleasure, or to visit family, friends or vacation."

Bed bugs are often thought of as a mattress pest, but experts say the bugs are often found in suitcases, boxes, shoes and other furniture in rooms where infestation has occurred.

[ABC News]