Bed bugs are tiny, but they can cause big problems. These pests hide in beds, sofas, and even clothes, coming out at night to feed on human blood. Once they infest a home, they are tough to get rid of—and the problem is growing in some parts of Mississippi.
Let’s take a look at five cities in the state that are currently dealing with a serious bed bug outbreak and what they’re doing to fight back.
Why Bed Bugs Are a Big Problem
Bed bugs are not known to spread diseases, but their bites can cause itching, rashes, and even allergic reactions. More than that, they bring stress, sleepless nights, and financial strain. They hide in cracks, multiply quickly, and are very hard to remove without professional help.
What makes the problem worse:
People travel and unknowingly carry bed bugs in bags or clothes
Secondhand furniture and mattresses may be infested
Many people don’t notice them until it’s too late
1. Jackson: The Capital Battles a Capital-Sized Problem
Jackson, the largest city in Mississippi, has reported a rising number of bed bug complaints. The city’s health department has been working with pest control services to respond quickly.
Efforts include:
Educating the public through social media and local news
Free or low-cost pest inspections in low-income areas
Promoting proper disposal of infested items
Still, with many older buildings and high population movement, the bugs are proving tough to stop.
2. Gulfport: Coastal City, Crawling Problem
In Gulfport, bed bugs are being found in apartments, motels, and even some public housing. With tourists coming and going, the chances of bugs spreading go up.
Steps being taken:
Hotel inspections have increased
Tenants are being advised on how to report infestations quickly
Property owners are being held responsible for treatment
Many residents say the issue is not just about killing bugs—it’s about awareness.
3. Hattiesburg: College Town, Bug Trouble
As a university town, Hattiesburg has lots of student housing, shared apartments, and furnished rentals—perfect places for bed bugs to spread fast.
University and city response:
Awareness campaigns at colleges and hostels
Landlords are being urged to act fast and provide proper treatment
Students are being warned not to pick up used furniture without checking
Despite efforts, bed bugs continue to be a recurring issue in off-campus housing.
4. Meridian: Small Town, Big Infestation
Meridian may be smaller, but the bed bug problem is just as serious. Local pest control companies report a steady rise in cases, especially in older homes and public housing.
City officials have:
Started tracking complaints to find hotspots
Launched cleanup drives in affected neighborhoods
Encouraged routine inspections in community housing projects
Locals are being told to stay alert, especially if they have frequent guests or buy used furniture.
5. Southaven: Retail Hub, Bed Bug Concerns
With busy shopping centres, hotels, and rental homes, Southaven sees a lot of foot traffic. This movement helps bed bugs travel from one place to another without being noticed.
Measures in place:
Pest control workshops for hotel and rental property staff
Local government sharing prevention tips through schools and community centres
Increased cooperation with private exterminators
People are also being warned not to ignore signs like itchy bites, small blood spots on sheets, or the musty smell these bugs leave behind.
How You Can Prevent Bed Bugs
No matter where you live, there are steps you can take to avoid bringing bed bugs into your home:
Check hotel beds and furniture while travelling
Avoid picking up furniture from the street
Wash and dry clothes on high heat after trips
Seal cracks and fix peeling wallpaper at home
Call professionals at the first sign of infestation
The bed bug outbreak in Mississippi is a reminder that no place is too big or small for an infestation. Cities like Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Meridian, and Southaven are stepping up with awareness campaigns, inspections, and better pest control practices.
But fighting bed bugs takes teamwork—from city officials to landlords to everyday citizens. Staying alert and informed is the best defense against these tiny invaders.
SOURCES
- (https://msdh.ms.gov/page/14,0,119,542.html)
- (https://extension.msstate.edu/news/feature-story/2023/battle-against-bedbugs-best-won-prevention)
- (https://extension.msstate.edu/publications/bed-bugs-and-what-do-about-them)
