Insect Invasion: 5 Hawaii Cities Combatting Bed Bug Onslaught

Hawaii is facing a significant bed bug problem, with several cities grappling with infestations. Here are 5 Hawaii cities combating the bed bug onslaught:

Honolulu

• Ranked among the top 50 most infested cities in the United States.
• Honolulu International Airport experienced bed bug issues, with several gates in Terminal 2 temporarily closed after bedbugs were discovered in seating and lounge spaces.
• The city’s emergency call center (Joint Traffic Management Center) was shut down and fumigated due to a bed bug infestation.

Waikiki

• A Japanese family reported a severe bed bug problem at a well-reviewed hotel in Waikiki, highlighting the issue in this popular tourist area.
• The incident underscores the challenges faced by hotels in maintaining pest-free environments in high-traffic tourist destinations.

Mililani

• Listed as one of the areas affected by bed bugs in Hawaii.
• Residents and visitors in this central Oahu city are advised to be vigilant about bed bug prevention and detection.

Waipahu

• Another city mentioned in the list of areas dealing with bed bug problems in Hawaii.
• The warm climate of this western Oahu city provides ideal conditions for bed bugs to thrive.

Kailua

• Included in the list of Hawaii cities facing bed bug issues.
• This windward Oahu town’s popularity among tourists and locals alike makes it susceptible to bed bug spread.

To combat the bed bug problem, Hawaii is implementing various strategies:

1. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches, combining monitoring, prevention, and targeted treatments.
2. Heat treatments, which are effective and environmentally friendly.
3. Chemical treatments applied by professionals in severe cases.
4. Public education on bed bug biology, early detection, and prevention measures.
5. Regular inspections of high-risk areas, including hotels, apartments, and public spaces.

As Hawaii continues to battle this insect invasion, both residents and visitors are advised to remain vigilant and take preventive measures to avoid spreading or encountering bed bugs during their stay or travel.

Sources

1. https://spectrumlocalnews.com/hi/hawaii/news/2023/02/11/bill-bites-back-at-bedbugs
2. https://www.civilbeat.org/2025/02/hawai%CA%BBi-might-ban-bedbugs-in-housing-but-not-hotels/
3. https://mauipestcontrol.com/oahu-pest-control/bed-bug-treatment-in-oahu/
4. https://cleanindiajournal.com/innovative-strategies-for-bedbug-management/
5. https://www.sandwichisle.com/bed-bug-control/