Bed bugs have become a significant problem in South Dakota, affecting multiple cities that are now actively responding to this insect invasion. Five cities in particular—Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, Brookings, and Pierre—are combating growing bed bug infestations that have been impacting homes, hotels, businesses, and rental properties across the state.
These insects are tiny, reddish-brown parasites that feed on human blood, typically biting during the night. Although bed bug bites do not spread disease, they cause irritation and discomfort, leading to stress and anxiety among those affected. Bed bugs can hide in cracks, mattresses, furniture, carpets, and even walls, making detection and eradication difficult. The resilience of these pests, combined with their ability to hitchhike via luggage, furniture, and clothing, has contributed to their resurgence.
Sioux Falls, the largest city in South Dakota, has seen an increase in reports of bed bug cases. The city has partnered with pest control professionals to raise public awareness on prevention and treatment options. Sioux Falls offers special services to residents dealing with infestations, helping to coordinate extermination efforts. Similarly, Rapid City is addressing a rise in bed bug problems, especially in hotels and rental units. The city works alongside pest control firms to facilitate prompt treatment and minimize spread, while also educating the public on identifying bed bug signs.
Aberdeen focuses on helping residents by providing affordable solutions and distributing information on inspection and prevention strategies. The city encourages regular checks to detect infestations early and prevent their spread.
Brookings combines public education campaigns with financial assistance to support affected residents. The city hosts events aimed at teaching people how to manage and prevent bed bug infestations effectively.
Pierre, the state capital, is enhancing regulations and local laws related to pest control. City officials are pushing for landlords to take responsibility for infestations in rental properties, ensuring tenants have access to necessary help for elimination efforts.
Residents across these cities are encouraged to take preventive measures such as regularly inspecting sleeping areas and furniture, being cautious while traveling, and immediately calling pest professionals at the first sign of infestation. Washing clothes in hot water and drying on high heat are effective ways to kill any bed bugs that might hitch a ride home. The combined efforts of these South Dakota cities highlight a strong commitment to controlling the bed bug problem through public education, regulatory measures, and access to professional pest management.
These ongoing initiatives are crucial as bed bugs continue to pose a challenging and persistent issue in South Dakota, urging the public to remain vigilant and proactive to protect their homes and communities.
Sources
(https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/06/14/insect-invasion-5-south-dakota-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/)
(https://www.orkin.com/press-room/worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-annual-rankings)
(https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/2023-11-01/u-s-cities-with-the-worst-bedbugs)
(https://www.rcgov.org/rapid-city-news-room/don-t-let-the-bed-bugs-bite-vigilance-is-the-key-5575.html)
(https://www.mentalfloss.com/geography/maps/cities-most-worried-about-bed-bugs)
