After news of an infestation of bed bugs in Paris, TTC riders have been extra vigilant on whether or not the fabric seats have been affected. Unfortunately, a viral video of what looks to be a bed bug was recently spotted on the TTC, and riders are really grossed out.
Bed bugs are taking over hotels and hostels in Paris, ruining what could have been a lovely visit to Paris in the autumn. Lately the infestation has grown, with the wingless insects taking over movie theatres, buses, and even the airport. The infestation has grown concerns over how fast these bugs can travel, especially with the Summer Olympics looming over Paris in just 10 months.
Unfortunately, bed bugs are not just confined to Paris, as it seems this is becoming a global infestation, as a “resurgence” has seen an increase in bed bugs over the last 2 decades. Some of the recent reasons for the resurgence of bed bugs? More people live in cities, more people are traveling, and bed bugs have grown more and more resistant to insecticides.
With Toronto being the number 1 city for bed bugs in Canada (makes sense as it’s the biggest), videos on TikTok and posts on Reddit have signaled the sighting of them on the TTC, advising riders to stand instead of sit. Although the bug in the below video may look like a bed bug, experts have actually debunked this as lice. Still gross.
Bed bug infestation have been growing, so it’s best to keep vigilant regardless. So, what should you do if you spot a bed bug?
First off, spotting a bed bug. They’re small, about the size of an apple seed and are mostly nocturnal. When they’re in your bed, you might spot them moving or see reddish-brown stains in the crevices in the mattress. They’re also known to hop onto backpacks so when you’re on the TTC it’s recommended not to put your backpack on the floor and consider standing.
What do you do if you spot a bed bug crawling across your mattress? Immediately washing and drying your fabric on the hottest setting is recommended, but if there’s a larger amount of bed bugs, definitely call a professional to get rid of them.
Stay vigilant out there Torontonians. Have you spotted a bed bug recently?