Understanding the Bedbug Outbreak in Paris

Reports of a bedbug outbreak in Paris have been making headlines since the summer. Recent news has generated global interest as the world’s fashion jet-set descends on the city for events like Paris Fashion Week. Currently, the city is also hosting the Rugby World Cup, heightening concerns ahead of the Paris Olympic Games next summer.

Bedbug sightings have been reported on Paris metro lines, the Eurostar, high-speed TGV trains, various cinemas, and even at Charles de Gaulle Airport’s waiting zone for travelers denied entry into the country.

The infestation of public spaces has prompted the country’s Transport Minister to convene a meeting with transportation operators, while the city seeks state assistance for a national battle plan against this growing challenge.

“No one is safe. There are risk factors, but the reality is you can catch bedbugs anywhere and bring them home,” stated a deputy mayor. France’s public health agency estimates that around 11 percent of households were infested between 2017 and 2022.

As a result of the outbreak hitting public spaces, many residents have developed new habits, such as thoroughly inspecting restaurant seats before sitting down and being cautious while using the metro.

Even activities like thrifting, which were once relaxing, now require careful consideration, including washing and drying any new textile purchases in high-temperature settings to mitigate risks. Vigilance is essential to avoid bringing these pests home.

What You Need to Know About the Outbreak and How to Protect Yourself

French health experts emphasize that bedbugs do not discriminate based on income or cleanliness; they are simply seeking a blood meal. Consequently, several reports attribute the outbreak to rising international travel, resistance to insecticides, and second-hand purchases.

Identifying Bedbugs

Look for flat, wingless brown insects roughly the size of an apple seed. They cannot jump or fly. Their eggs are white and resemble lice. If you’re staying in accommodations like Airbnbs or hotels, inspect for droppings—small black dots on mattresses, bed frames, and corners can indicate their presence. Additionally, waking up with clusters of itchy red spots may suggest you are in infested surroundings.

Bedbugs typically hide in mattresses, sofas, carpets, and skirting boards, feeding at night without transmitting diseases.

Guidelines for Staying in Hotels

• Never leave your suitcase on the bed or floor. Instead, store bags on a luggage rack or place them in the bathtub to reduce risk.

• Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the room, focusing on the mattress, headboard, curtains, and furniture for any signs of bedbugs or bloodstains.

Tips After Your Trip

• When you arrive home, avoid placing luggage on beds or furniture.

• Unpack in the bathroom and shake clothing in the shower to check for any hidden pests.

• Wash all clothing in hot water and dry them on high heat for at least 30 minutes to eliminate any potential bugs.

• Vacuum your suitcase inside and out, discarding vacuum contents in a sealed bag.

• Store your suitcase in a garage or a sealed bin, avoiding storage under the bed.

Additional Travel Recommendations

• Opt for hard-shell suitcases instead of soft ones, which are more susceptible to bedbug infestations.

• Pack items in resealable bags to maintain cleanliness during travel.