Bed bugs on ship: a French review

Abstract

Background: Linked to the increase in international travel and development of insecticide resistance, a resurgence of bed bug infestation has been observed since the 2000's and become now a worldwide public health problem. Passenger ships as part of the tourism industry are traditionally infested by bed bugs, but the whole maritime world is now concerned. Materials and methods: We conducted a short questionnaire-survey among the 22 doctors of the French seafarers' health services to assess the level of this phenomenon in the occupational maritime environment. Results: Twenty seven per cent of the doctors reported that a patient shared to them a bed bug infestation on board. In that case, all declared that the infestation impacted the patient's life on board. Eighteen per cent responded that a shipowner had already sought their support in face of a bed bug infestation. Lastly, 27% considered that bed bug infestation is an increasing problem. Conclusions: Bed bugs infestation on board has a major impact on the seafarers and passengers, and significant economic consequences. Preventive measures need to be implemented to limit the risks of dissemination. It is essential to inform and educate seafarers on best practice.

Cimikose (Bettwanzenbefall)

“…Dabei sind neben Privathaushalten Orte mit hoher Personenfluktuation betroffen, z. B. Wohnheime, Hotels, Schiffe, aber auch Krankenhäuser [6,7]. Im Rahmen eines rezenten Häufungsgeschehens in Paris berichteten verschiedene Medien über einen Bettwanzenbefall auch von Zügen und Kinos [8].…”

Historical evolution of the passenger ship’s doctor

“…all ferries to and from the major islands, which are: a. major ships intended for public cruise service; b. ferries, licensed to carry 500 or more passengers, on scheduled public service whose duration, between calls, is 6 hours or more. 15,16 ORCID iDs Mauro Salducci https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4270-3022 David Shaholli https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0902-0302…”

“…all ferries to and from the major islands, which are: major ships intended for public cruise service; ferries, licensed to carry 500 or more passengers, on scheduled public service whose duration, between calls, is 6 hours or more. 15,16 …”

“…ferries, licensed to carry 500 or more passengers, on scheduled public service whose duration, between calls, is 6 hours or more. 15,16…”