The Federal Government of Nigeria has heightened surveillance at all entry points in the nation following the outbreak of bed bug infestations in France and some parts of Europe.
A wave of panic has spread across France as travellers have posted their photos and videos showing bed bugs on the Paris local transport system, high-speed trains, hotels, and even the Charles de Gaulle airport.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammed Ali Pate, announced that the ministry is committed to ensuring that appropriate measures and responses are set in place to prevent and contain bed bug infestations nationwide.
In a statement by the ministry’s Director, Media and Public Relations, Patricia Deworitshe, he said: ‘Bed bugs are small, flat reddish-brown wingless insects that infest beds, sofas, luggage and other furniture.
‘They often crawl onto people’s body or luggage to travel to new surroundings. While they are not known to cause any illness, their bites causes discomfort, itching, anxiety, sleep disturbances, depression and allergies.
‘Early detection is key to controlling their infestation, as they are capable of putting everyone at risk.’
Pate stated that the ministry remains committed to ensuring that appropriate public measures and responses are put in place to contain the bed bug infestation nationwide.
The minister urged the public to cooperate with Port Health Officers at points of entry in the course of their surveillance activities.
