Irish rugby fans jetting off to Paris have been warned about the major bed bug infestation that has gripped the French capital.

The warning comes as thousands are set to fly to France this weekend for Ireland's Rugby World Cup pool game against Scotland. Paris has been suffering from significant outbreaks of the parasitic insects that feed on human blood, Rentokil warned.

These pests feed on blood usually when people are asleep and are notorious for their ability to hitchhike and infest new locations. Bed bugs are prolific breeders, and once they attach themselves to clothing, luggage, or furniture, they can quickly infest a room, house, hotel, or even a plane, tram or bus.

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Due to their size, bed bugs can hide in places where they are difficult to spot such as small cracks and crevices, making mattresses, behind wallpaper, under skirting boards, luggage, bed frames and headboards perfect hiding places. Dark stains on the mattress from bed bug excreta, referred to as "faecal spotting", can be a major sign of an infestation.

Other signs include any unpleasant, sweet, sickly scents in a room, small dark blood spots, shed exoskeletons, or even live bugs on bedding as well as other key areas including bed frames, mattresses and wardrobes.

Area Technical Manager for Rentokil, Colm Moore said: "Bed bugs can be a nightmare for people travelling. They are elusive and hitchhike their way into new places through luggage, clothing, and other personal items. It is crucial for anyone travelling, especially for the Rugby World Cup, to be aware of the signs of bed bug infestations and take preventive measures.

"Prevention is the best defence against bed bugs. By staying vigilant and taking these precautions, travellers can help reduce the risk of bringing these unwanted pests back home with them."

"Rentokil recommends the following precautions:

• Check your room before unpacking but don’t put your luggage on the floor or bed.
• Use luggage racks or place your luggage in the bath or shower as hard surfaces make it more difficult for bed bugs to nestle in and hide.
• Hanging your clothes in the wardrobe rather than using drawers.
• Packing items in sealed plastic bags can provide extra protection.
• Wash and dry clothing at high temperatures when you return home, as bed bugs cannot survive extreme heat.
• If you suspect bed bugs are present in your room then contact hotel management immediately."

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