Bedbug Outbreaks Surge Globally, Sparking Concerns in Hong Kong After Cases in South Korea, Paris, London

Increase in international travel and insecticide resistance contributing to the resurgence; health officials globally offer advice on prevention and discuss the physical and psychological impact of infestations.

• Surge in international travel along with increased insecticide resistance has resulted in a dramatic increase in bedbug infestations across South Korea, Paris, London, sparking concerns in Hong Kong. South Korea alone recorded 33 reports of infestations across the country.
• Hong Kong authorities, including the Food and Environment Hygiene Department (FEHD), Centre for Health Protection (CHP), and the Health Department, have advised airlines and the Airport Authority to maintain cleanliness on the aircraft and issued an on-site inspection of the airport in addition to distributing informational leaflets to travelers and residents.
• South Korean authorities believe the spike in infestations is due to resurgence in tourism following the pandemic, with international arrivals peaking at over 1 million in September, more than triple the figure from the previous year.
• Bedbugs, although not known for spreading diseases, can cause painful swelling, irritation, and allergic reactions when they bite. Additionally, the social stigma associated with bedbug infestations has raised concerns among the public and private sectors. The insects are known for residing in mattresses, cracks in bed frames, upholstery, chairs, and sofas.
• Experts have advised travelers and residents to take precautionary and proactive measures to prevent infestations, including sealing clothes in plastic bags during travel, inspecting hotel rooms upon arrival, keeping living spaces clean and dry, and repairing damaged areas like cracks and wallpapers. Pest control measures including heating treatments and sealing infested items in plastic bags and freezing them for 24 hours have also been recommended.

6 Articles

South China Morning Post mint UPI South China Morning Post CNN CNBC