In recent weeks, bedbugs have transformed from a subject of potential ridicule into a contentious political matter in France. Concerned citizens have reported sightings of these pests in various locations, including trains, the Paris metro, and cinemas. Recognizing the escalating number of reported bedbug cases as a potentially significant public health concern, the French government announced its intention to hold emergency meetings this week.
France, currently hosting the Rugby World Cup and preparing for the 2024 Olympics, is especially focused on addressing this issue. Bedbug infestations have already affected two schools—one in Marseille and another in Villefranche-sur-Saone, leading to their temporary closure for thorough cleaning.
To address the situation, Transport Minister Clement Beaune will convene a meeting on Wednesday involving transport and passenger organizations. The objective is to assess the extent of the issue and reinforce measures to address it. The ministry emphasizes its commitment to informing the public about actions taken and ensuring the well-being of travelers.
Furthermore, an inter-ministerial meeting is scheduled for Friday. Government spokesman Olivier Veran pledged swift responses to address the concerns raised by the French population.
Sylvain Maillard, the head of President Emmanuel Macron's Renaissance party in the French National Assembly, announced plans for a cross-party bill to combat the "scourge" of bedbugs. This initiative aims to make bedbug control a priority and encourages the involvement of opposition parties in shaping the proposed legislation.
Health Minister Aurelien Rousseau sought to reassure the public, stating that there was no "general panic" regarding the bedbug issue. He cautioned against unscrupulous pest control firms charging exorbitant fees for their services and denounced abuses in the pest control sector.
Bedbugs, once a rarity in daily life since the 1950s, have re-emerged in recent decades, driven by high population densities and increased mass transit. Approximately one-tenth of French households have reportedly dealt with bedbug infestations in recent years, necessitating costly pest control treatments that often require repetition.
While individual reports have surfaced of bedbugs in the Paris metro, high-speed trains, and Charles De Gaulle Airport, these cases have yet to be confirmed by authorities. An investigation by Paris transport operator RATP reportedly found no evidence of bedbugs on its services.
Renaissance MP Bruno Studer emphasized the need for accurate statistics to assess the scope of the bedbug problem, while colleague Robin Reda highlighted the potential to classify the issue as a public health concern.
Mathilde Panot, head of the France Unbowed MPs group, criticized the government's lack of action and called for urgent measures, including a national prevention plan, an emergency fund, and the establishment of public disinfestation services.
Bedbugs, notorious for nesting in mattresses but also hiding in clothing and luggage, emerge at night to feed on human blood. Their bites can lead to skin reactions, intense itching, and allergic responses. Additionally, bedbug infestations often result in psychological distress, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression.
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