Irish supporters travelling to the Olympic Games in Paris have been advised to be aware of the threat of bed bugs in the city.
This follows significant infestations being reported across the French capital last autumn during the Rugby World Cup.
Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, have said that it is important that fans making the journey across the Channel for the Olympics are aware of the signs of the pests, and how to mitigate the risks of bringing them back home.
Travellers are advised to check for the presence of dark stains on mattresses from bed bug excrement, and to be cautious of any unpleasant, sweet, sickly scents in a room.
They are also advised 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.
Bed bugs are ectoparasitic insects that feed on human blood, usually when people are asleep, and are notorious for their ability to hitch-hike and infest new locations.
They 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.
This makes mattresses, behind wallpaper, under skirting boards, luggage, bed frames, and headboards, perfect hiding places.
Colm Moore, area technical manager for Rentokil, said that with the summer Olympics drawing so many visitors to Paris, it is crucial to be aware of the risks of bed bugs.
“Travellers should stay vigilant, recognise the signs of bed bug infestations, and take preventive measures,” Mr Moore said.
“Awareness and caution are the best defences against bed bugs. By following these precautions, travellers can help ensure a pest-free journey.”
The company recommends a litany of precautions to prevent bed bugs while travelling, such as checking your room before unpacking, but keeping luggage off the floor or bed while doing so.
They also advise travellers to use luggage racks or place luggage in the bath or shower, as hard surfaces make it more difficult for bed bugs to nestle in and hide.
Hanging clothes in the wardrobes instead of using drawers or shelves and packing items in sealed plastic bags can also provide protection.
Upon returning home, travellers are advised to wash and dry their clothes at high temperatures as bed bugs cannot survive extreme heat.
If you suspect bed bugs are present in your room, contact the hotel's management immediately.
