The French Government Addresses Paris Bedbug Infestation: “In Reality, No One Is Safe”

The French authorities are asking for residents to be calm as they strive to address a bedbug outbreak in Paris.

Recent footage captured by Parisians depicting the widespread presence of bedbugs in public transportation, cinemas, and various frequently visited places has prompted calls for government intervention.

“You have to understand that, in reality, no one is safe,” Deputy Mayor of Paris Emmanuel Gregoire said. “Obviously, there are risk factors, but in reality, you can catch bedbugs anywhere and bring them home.”

On Friday, Minister of Transportation Clement Beaune announced his intention to tackle the infestation issue and begin discussions with transportation operators in the upcoming days.

The insect issue is not a recent development. The French government initiated a program three years ago with the goal of educating residents about the bedbug spread and providing resources for managing infestations in their homes.

The infestation has become a more urgent concern due to the impending Olympic Games scheduled to be held in Paris next year. Both residents and international visitors are expressing concerns about whether the bedbug issue might discourage attendance at the global sporting event. However, the deputy mayor remains unfazed.

“There is no threat to the Olympic Games,” Gregoire added. “Bedbugs existed before, and they will exist afterward.”

Additionally, Gregoire urged insurance companies to incorporate bedbug coverage into home insurance policies, recognizing that individuals with limited financial resources often lack the means to engage professional pest control services.

Skin-crawling videos show bed bugs crawling over seats on trains and buses in Paris as France battles an ‘invasion’ of the insects.

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— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) October 2, 2023