Irish fans in France put on alert for bed bugs as sniffer dogs put on train

IRISH RUGBY fans heading to France for the Rugby World Cup clash with Scotland this weekend have been put on alert after reports of bed bugs infestations in public transport across the country.

It is understood that France will dispatch sniffer dogs in Parisian trains and Metro to remedy the situation.

Bed bugs are parasitic insects that feed on human blood, usually when people are asleep, and are notorious for their ability to hitchhike and infest new locations.

The bed bugs infestation in France has been called a “widespread outbreak” by CNN as there have been reports of bed bugs in public transports, movie theatres as well as in hospitals in France.

However, the transport minister, Clément Beaune, said there had been about 10 traveller reports of bed bugs being in Paris’ public transport operator, the RATP, as well as 37 reports made to the SCNF, the national rail operator.

The minister insisted that all cases were checked, but none we proved.

On social media, French people have been sharing videos of mattresses on the streets, as well as videos of the insects on the public transports in Paris.

Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, has also issued a warning to the Irish public about the threat of bed bugs, especially those travelling to Paris for this weekend’s Rugby World Cup pool game against Scotland.

"It is important for travellers to be aware of the common signs of these pests and how to mitigate the risks of bringing them back home," a statement said.

"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 a plane, tram or bus. Due to their size, bed bugs can hide in places where they are difficult-to-spot such as small cracks and crevices, making mattresses, behind wallpaper, under skirting boards, luggage, bed frames and headboards perfect hiding places. 

"Travellers are advised to check for the presence of dark stains on mattresses from bed bug excreta 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 as well as checking key areas including bed frames, mattresses and wardrobes for shed exoskeletons, or even live bugs."  

Colm Moore, Area Technical Manager for Rentokil, emphasises the importance of vigilance when travelling: "Bed bugs can be a nightmare for people travelling. They are elusive and hitchhike their way into new places through luggage, clothing, and other personal items. It is crucial for anyone travelling, especially for the Rugby World Cup, to be aware of the signs of bed bug infestations and take preventive measures. Prevention is the best defence against bed bugs. By staying vigilant and taking these precautions, travellers can help reduce the risk of bringing these unwanted pests back home with them."

Rentokil recommends the following precautions:

- Check your room before unpacking but don’t put your luggage on the floor or bed.
- 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.
- Hanging your clothes in the wardrobe rather than using drawers.  
- Packing items in sealed plastic bags can provide extra protection. 
- Wash and dry clothing at high temperatures when you return home, as bed bugs cannot survive extreme heat.
- If you suspect bed bugs are present in your room then contact hotel management immediately.