Paris in Panic Over Bedbugs as Problem Worsens, Hotels Pay Thousands for Extermination
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Paris is experiencing a panic over a potential bedbug outbreak, with the problem appearing to get worse 3 weeks in. Hotels are now paying up to $1,600 to exterminate bedbugs.
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The panic began on social media during Paris Fashion Week, with posts of bedbugs on the metro. The deputy mayor warned "no one is safe" from catching them.
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Hotel owner Max Malka said he paid €1,500 ($1,580) for pest control after a sighting, at risk of getting sued if bugs spread between rooms.
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In the UK, sniffer dogs are being used in hotels and homes to reassure citizens and visitors.
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While concerning, there's limited data on how Paris's current bedbug population compares to previous years. Globally, studies suggest a resurgence since 2000 due to urbanization and pesticide resistance.