Several cities in Nebraska are actively combating a growing bed bug infestation that has affected homes, hotels, public spaces, and rental properties across the state. The five cities leading the fight against this insect invasion include Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, Kearney, and Norfolk. These urban areas have seen an increase in bed bug occurrences and are implementing varied strategies to manage and reduce their spread.
Omaha, as Nebraska’s largest city, has experienced a significant impact from bed bugs in multiple settings, including hotels, apartments, and even public transportation. The city has responded with awareness campaigns to educate residents on early detection and proper responses, working closely with professional pest control services to support treatment efforts for affected homes and businesses. Despite ongoing efforts, the bed bug issue remains a serious concern for many Omaha residents, notably those in public housing who have voiced frustration over slow mitigation measures.
Lincoln, the state capital, has also seen rising bed bug problems. Local authorities are intensifying training programs for pest control professionals to improve the efficacy of treatments and are offering resources to residents to help them prevent and manage infestations. Public health workers conduct regular inspections of community spaces to maintain healthy, pest-free environments.
In Grand Island, attention is focused on identifying infestations early in residential rentals and schools. The city collaborates with landlords and holds community meetings to disseminate preventive strategies and encourage cooperation between tenants and property managers to combat bed bugs effectively.
Kearney faces challenges related to the density of housing and the rapid spread of bed bugs in close living quarters. The city’s public health department coordinates with pest control companies to treat affected areas and prioritizes education for schools and hotels on identifying and preventing infestations.
Norfolk, in northeastern Nebraska, has been dealing with an increase in bed bug cases primarily in rental units and senior living facilities. The city has launched a public education campaign to raise awareness and actively encourages residents to regularly check their homes and report infestations early. Norfolk also works with local businesses to develop sustainable pest management solutions.
Across these cities, the fight against bed bugs involves more than pesticide use; it hinges on early detection, public awareness, and collaboration between residents, businesses, and health authorities. Some cities are also exploring affordable pest control options or subsidies to assist low-income residents who may struggle with the high costs of eradication. Legislative efforts have seen mixed results, such as in Omaha, where a bill aimed at requiring landlords to disclose infestations and hire licensed exterminators was vetoed, frustrating tenants who continue to battle persistent infestations.
Overall, Nebraska’s response to the bed bug invasion is multifaceted, involving education campaigns, inspections, and partnerships to manage a complex public health challenge. The coordinated efforts in Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, Kearney, and Norfolk demonstrate the state’s commitment to controlling these persistent pests and protecting residents’ well-being. Continuing vigilance and collaboration will be essential for ongoing progress in this insect invasion battle.
Sources
[1] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/06/24/insect-invasion-5-nebraska-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/
[2] https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-01-25-one-nebraska-city-named-among-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/
[3] https://www.3newsnow.com/central-omaha/bed-bug-battle-omaha-tenants-frustrated-after-governor-pillen-vetoes-infestation-bill
[4] https://nebraskapublicmedia.org/en/news/news-articles/legislature-upholds-pillens-veto-of-bedbug-bill/
[5] https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/109/PDF/CS/LB287.pdf
