TORONTO, Jan. 7, 2020 /CNW/ - The highly anticipated Orkin Canada list of top bed bug cities is out! Similar to the past three years, larger cities and travel centres claimed the top spots. This past year saw significant bed bug sightings across the country, from infestations in federal buildings to private homes.

In less than two decades, Cimex lectularius, better known as bed bugs, have gone from a rarely experienced irritant to a major problem thriving in clean and dirty homes alike.

Demonstrating the national prevalence of this growing problem, Canada's largest pest control company has released its third annual list of top bed bug cities. The findings by Orkin Canada are based on the number of commercial and residential bed bug treatments carried out by the company between the period of January 1 – December 31, 2019.

Download here the full list of Canada`s bed bug cities.

This year's top ten bed bug cities are:

Toronto

Winnipeg

Vancouver

St. John's

Ottawa

Scarborough

Halifax

Oshawa

Sudbury

Hamilton

The good news is, that there are solutions to this pesky problem and good ways to reduce the chances of an infestation with a little knowledge.

Bed bugs can be identified by noticing tiny dark coloured stains, cast skins or live bugs. The most effective places to look for bed bugs in on mattress tags and seams, under seat cushions, behind headboards, creases of drawers, buckling wallpaper and carpets.

Prevention of hitchhiking bed bugs from infecting your home can be achieved by:

careful examination of bags and clothing; drying potentially infested bed linens or clothing on the highest heat setting; and inspecting all second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home.

Contact a pest management professional immediately, if bed bugs are suspected.

About Orkin Canada

Orkin Canada, a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE:ROL) is the country's largest pest control provider and leader in the development of fast, effective and environmentally responsible pest control solutions. One key program is the Home Pest Protection Program that prevents and eradicates pest infestations and provides key information about pests. Orkin Canada provides professional services to both residential and commercial clients from coast to coast. For more information, visit www.orkincanada.ca, like www.facebook.com/OrkinCanada or follow @orkincanada.

SOURCE Orkin Canada