Battling Bedbugs: North African Nations Take Proactive Steps to Prevent Infestations

Morocco and Algeria have implemented measures to mitigate the possibility of bedbug infestations, following reports of a significant increase in these blood-sucking insects in France. According to the Moroccan state news agency MAP, the country's health ministry has implemented necessary actions to minimize the introduction and proliferation of bedbugs within their national borders.

The ministry is strengthening "health surveillance" at border points and actively monitoring the health and environmental conditions in areas affected by bedbugs, according to MAP.

Additionally, MAP has provided a comprehensive set of recommendations regarding international travel for citizens.

The ministry, as per MAP, advised citizens against being swayed by rumors and overestimating the health risks associated with the arrival of bedbugs in Morocco. Alongside reassuring the citizens, the ministry also advised them to refrain from buying second-hand mattresses, furniture, or clothing from countries with a significant bedbug infestation.

The Algerian health ministry announced its plans to enforce health regulations and establish monitoring centers at its borders. The ministry revealed its intention to conduct health monitoring and disinfection protocols for aircraft, ships, and land transport. Moreover, it aims to enhance the surveillance of epidemics. This update was shared on the ministry's Facebook page on Thursday.

Algerian authorities said over the weekend that 1.5 million foreign tourists have visited the country so far in 2023.

Deputy Minister for Ecological Transition, Clement Beaune, photographed at the Elysee Palace following the Council of Ministers in Paris on September 20, 2023. (Photo by Andrea Savorani Neri/NurPhoto/Getty Images)

'No one is safe': France vows action as bedbugs sweep Paris

French government officials have urged for calm following reported bedbug sightings that went viral over the past days.

French Transport Minister Clément Beaune assured CNN on Wednesday that France is not facing an invasion of bedbugs. He emphasized that every reported case is thoroughly investigated, and there is no significant rise in bedbug numbers in public transport.

According to the French public health body, ANSES, bedbug infestations have been gradually increasing for the past two decades, not only in France but worldwide. ANSES describes it as an emerging issue, but also acknowledges that media coverage has contributed to creating unnecessary fear and panic.

The National Institute for the Study and Control of Bedbugs (INELP) told CNN on Monday that the level of bedbug infestation in France is worse than in previous years but treatable.