Parasites in bed: the stealthy invasion of French real estate (recognize early symptoms)

The bedbug invasion in France in 2023 is attributed to several factors. International travel and the development of insecticide resistance have favored the reproduction of these parasites. In addition, bedbugs predominantly feed on human blood and have found favorable breeding conditions due to the high temperatures this year. They are spreading not only in residential areas but also in public transportation, movie theaters and even hospitals, which makes controlling them challenging. In 2023, one in ten dwellings in France was affected by bedbugs, prompting the government to consider measures to eradicate the menace.

Several methods can be used to detect bed bugs early. One of the most common methods is visual inspection. You should look for signs of their presence, such as red lesions on the skin from bites, small black stains on bed linens corresponding to their feces, and traces of blood from their crushing at night.

Using a UV lamp to detect bed bugs has several advantages. The UV lamp increases the visibility of bed bugs, as well as their eggs and feces, which can reflect UV light and become more visible to the human eye. This allows bedbugs to be detected more quickly and effectively, especially in dark places. UV light also creates a contrast between bed bugs (or their tracks) and the surface they are on, such as bedding, mattresses or sofas, making them easier to spot. Also, a UV light bulb can be useful not only for detecting bedbugs, but also other organisms or substances that react to this light, such as certain types of mold or animal urine. It is a versatile tool for the home.

The UV lamp is an indispensable accessory for prevention. Regular inspections with a UV lamp allow bed bug infestations to be detected and treated at an early stage, before they become a serious problem.

There are also simple traps that can be made to detect bed bugs. This can be an economical and effective solution for early detection of their presence. It is important to note that these traps can detect the presence of bed bugs, but are not a method of extermination.

Physical signs also play an important role in determining the presence of bed bugs. Bed bugs feed on human blood, leaving behind bites that can cause redness and itching. Bed bug bites tend to have a distinctive appearance, often appearing in lines or groups of three or four bites. They may resemble mosquito bites, but they are often smaller and do not have a red dot in the center.

Small black spots on bedding corresponding to bedbug feces, as well as traces of blood from crushing them at night, are telltale signs of infection.

Bed bugs are visible to the naked eye, although they often hide well during the day. They are more active at night and can sometimes be seen on the mattress, along seams, under pillows or in crevices of the bed or bed frame.

Bed bug excrement and shifting skins can also be signs of infestation, although their small size makes them difficult to detect.

A heavy bed bug infestation can cause a sweet and foul odor due to the pheromones they release.

Bed bug eggs and juvenile bed bugs can also be signs of infestation, although their small size makes them difficult to detect.

The economic and sanitary cost of bedbugs in France is estimated at more than 230 million euros annually. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that one in ten French dwellings is affected by bedbugs, incurring significant costs for both individuals and professionals for treatment and eradication. Bedbug infestation is a costly problem, especially because of the cost of controlling the phenomenon and the associated consequences, such as the potential decrease in the value of the affected properties.

In light of the magnitude of the problem, several French ministries have joined forces to launch a plan to combat bedbugs and their spread in dwellings. This demonstrates the seriousness of the situation and its impact on housing.

The increase in the number of infestations has led to a significant increase in demand for disinfection services. This increase in demand may affect the cost of services and potentially the value of real estate in heavily infested areas.