Nigeria has heightened surveillance at all points of entry, following the outbreak of bed bug infestation in France and other parts of Europe.

A statement signed by the Director of Media and Public Relations, Patricia Deworitshe stated that the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate disclosed that the Ministry remains committed to ensuring that appropriate public measures and responses are put in place to contain the bed bug infestation nationwide.

He revealed that the Ministry has developed a draft sheet, which will be in circulation soon to strengthen awareness and health education on the control of bed bugs.

Pate urged the public to cooperate with Port Health Officers at points of entry in the course of their surveillance activities.

Bed bugs are small, flat reddish-brown wingless insects that infest beds, sofas, luggages and other furniture. They often crawl onto peoples body or luggage to travel to new surroundings.

While they are not known to cause any illness, their bites cause 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. (Nigerian Tribune)