Recent news reports of bed bugs

Mainstream news outlets have been reporting on bed bugs in London following increased awareness of them in Paris (they're international pests now!).

"The UK saw a 65% increase in bed bug infestations from 2022 to 2023, according to data released by pest-control company Rentokil in September"

This Sky News article outlines the concerns with a fair perspective and offers some advice: https://news.sky.com/story/will-bed-bugs-travel-from-paris-to-the-uk-theyre-already-here-expert-says-12976476

Pest Control company, Rentokil, also have some more detailed information and facts about bed bugs: https://www.rentokil.co.uk/bed-bugs/

NHS Advice

The NHS advise the following, "How to get rid of bed bugs":

• wash affected bedding and clothing on a hot wash (60C) and tumble dry on a hot setting for at least 30 minutes
• put affected clothing and bedding in a plastic bag and put it in the freezer for 3 or 4 days
• clean and vacuum regularly – bedbugs are found in both clean and dirty places, but regular cleaning will help you spot them early

There is further info for reference on their site, including 'signs of' and an image of one for reference: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bedbugs/

Our Advice

Please remain vigilant on changeovers and if you are concerned that you may have an infestation of bed bugs at your property, then please alert us as soon as possible, we advise that you contact a professional pest controller such as Rentokil. There may also be independent pest controllers local to you - please call and we'll try our best to assist you.

We'll continue to monitor for any developments, particularly at a local level, or should any national guidance be published.

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