Education minister says ‘cases are piling up’ and that ‘an immediate response is needed’

France has been forced to shut seven schools over growing concerns over an infestation of bedbugs, the education minister has said.

“Bedbugs were detected at various levels in … I believe 17 institutions, and currently as I speak to you, seven institutions are closed for this reason,” Gabriel Attal told France 5 television.

The French government has held a series of meetings this week to examine surging numbers of reported bedbug cases at a time when France is hosting the Rugby World Cup and preparing to host the Paris 2024 Olympics.

  • redcalcium@lemmy.institute
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    1 year ago

    I find it hard to believe that France is only recently got bedbug problem. Tourists from all over the world are visiting France every year, right? Bedbugs surely already exist in France since ages ago. Are the news actually overblown, or is France truly experiencing significant increase in bedbugs infestation right now?

    • gaael@lemmy.world
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      1 year ago

      In the Paris area, there seem to be more and more recent reports of bedbugs. 3 of my friends actually had to move after the treatment of their flats failed.

      Idk how bedbugs feel about the cold, but our winters are getting milder, resulting (among other things) in an increase in mosquitos population.

    • Geth@lemmy.dbzer0.com
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      1 year ago

      Apparently the bed bug issues are getting worse as they have become more resistant to insecticides as well over the years.