South Korea is grappling with a resurgence of bedbugs, prompting a government response. The country had previously eliminated these pests in the 1960s, but a recent infestation linked to France has led to a resurgence.
To combat the issue, authorities are launching a month-long campaign, focusing on inspections and immediate disinfection of vulnerable places like public bathhouses and lodging facilities. This situation mirrors a bedbug outbreak in France, raising concerns of possible UK spread.
The resurgence is attributed to eased travel restrictions post-Covid-19. Though bedbugs don't transmit diseases, their bites cause itching and secondary skin infections. The government allocated £312 million for the fight, forming a special response team to address the problem. Public awareness and reporting are crucial, as some people hesitate to report sightings due to hygiene concerns. Many South Koreans have altered daily habits to avoid bedbugs, impacting activities like cinema and dining out.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/nov/08/south-korea-bedbug-outbreak-crisis-campaign-eradication-inspections