France's Battle Against Bedbugs Intensifies Ahead of Olympics

The French government has launched a battle plan to combat the increasing presence of bedbugs in public transport, cinemas, and hospitals. The blood-sucking insects have been found in the Paris metro, high-speed trains, and Charles-de-Gaulle Airport, prompting the Transport Minister to convene a meeting with public transport operators to discuss counter-measures. Bedbugs have made a resurgence in recent decades due to high population densities and mass transit, affecting one-tenth of French households. The national health agency recommends checking hotel beds when traveling and being cautious about second-hand furniture. Bedbug bites can cause skin reactions, psychological distress, and sleeping issues.