Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, is advising people to be aware of the threat of bed bugs while travelling this summer, especially those travelling to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics starting on the 26 July.
Following significant infestations being reported across the French capital last autumn during the Rugby World Cup, it is important that fans making the journey across the Channel for the upcoming Olympics, are aware of the signs of these pests and how to mitigate the risks of bringing them back home.
Bed bugs are ectoparasitic insects that feed on human blood, usually when people are asleep. They are notorious for their ability to hitchhike and infest new locations. Bed bugs are prolific breeders, and once they attach themselves to clothing, luggage, or furniture, they can quickly infest a room, house, hotel, or even transport like planes, trains, and buses. Due to their size, bed bugs can hide where they are difficult to spot, such as in cracks and crevices, making mattresses, behind wallpaper, under skirting boards, in luggage, bed frames, and headboards, perfect hiding places.
Travellers are advised to check for the presence of dark stains on mattresses from bed bug excrement, often referred to as 'faecal spotting,' to be cautious of any unpleasant, sweet, sickly scents in a room, to inspect bedding for small dark blood spots, and check key areas, including bed frames, mattresses, and wardrobes, for shed exoskeletons or even live bugs.
Colm Moore, Area Technical Manager for Rentokil, said: "With the 2024 Summer Olympics drawing many visitors to Paris, it's crucial to be aware of the risks of bed bugs. These elusive pests can hitchhike to new places on luggage and clothing. Travellers should stay vigilant, recognise the signs of bed bug infestations, and take preventive measures.
“Awareness and caution are the best defences against bed bugs. By following these precautions, travellers can help ensure a pest-free journey. Visit the Rentokil website to learn more about bed bug prevention and treatment."
Rentokil recommends the following precautions:
Check your room before unpacking but keep your luggage off the floor or bed, while you do this.
Use luggage racks or place your luggage in the bath or shower, as hard surfaces make it more difficult for bed bugs to nestle in and hide.
Hang your clothes in the wardrobe rather than using drawers or shelves.
Packing items in sealed plastic bags can provide extra protection.
When you return home, wash and dry clothing at high temperatures, as bed bugs cannot survive extreme heat.
If you suspect bed bugs are present in your room, contact hotel management immediately.
