Numerous videos shared on social media in recent weeks show a significant bed bug infestation on Paris public transport, forcing politicians to take action against the scourge less than a year before the Summer Olympics.
Whether in the subway, on the TGV, in cinemas or even at the airport: bed bugs have been spotted in many places in the French capital.
Screenshot – Portal
Several public transport users interviewed by Portal said they were concerned about the resurgence of these harmful insects.
“It’s really traumatized me in a way that I’m left hanging right now [TGV] And it’s true that I can’t relax there, explains Laura Mmadi. I keep my suitcases closed to possibly prevent them from getting into my house.”
Screenshot – Portal
“It stressed me out because I had to take the train this morning and I was wondering if I would find any,” says Sophie Ruscica. It scared me a little, but at the same time I know that you can find them in the cinema, almost everywhere.”
Screenshot – Portal
This situation is forcing the French government to take measures to calm the population.
The government announced on Friday a meeting with transport companies next week to “take stronger action against these insects” and “protect” travelers.
“I will bring together transport operators next week to inform about the measures implemented and to be more responsive to the needs of travelers. For reassurance and protection,” wrote the delegated transport minister Clément Beaune on the social network X (formerly Twitter).
#bedbugs | I will bring together transport companies next week to inform about the measures taken and to be more responsive to the needs of travelers. For reassurance and protection.
– Clement Beaune (@CBaune) September 29, 2023
The Paris City Hall on Thursday called on the government to “have an action plan” against bed bugs, expressing concern about a “significant resurgence” of this parasitic species. The city hall particularly wants to organize “pest control conferences”.
“The state must urgently bring together all concerned stakeholders to implement an action plan commensurate with this scourge as all of France prepares to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2024,” wrote Emmanuel Grégoire, first deputy to Mayor Anne Hidalgo. in a letter to Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne.
As for the “cost of treating this type of pest, it could be covered by home insurance contracts,” estimated Mr. Grégoire on Friday morning on the BFMTV channel.
Screenshot – Portal
These insects disappeared from daily life in the 1950s and have made a comeback in many developed countries in the last thirty years, thanks to an increasingly nomadic lifestyle and consumption that favors second-hand purchases, and increasing resistance to insecticides.
They are the size of an apple seed, feed mainly on human blood at night, usually hide in mattresses or spring mattresses and are transported in clothing and luggage.
To eliminate them, careful cleaning of the infested area is essential and often requires the use of a specialist pest control service.
Check out the footage in the video above