Bedbug infestation fears in Hong Kong spark panic buying of insecticides and leap in pest control bookings

In Hong Kong, there's a big scare about bedbugs leading to a rush on insecticides and more calls to pest control services. Francisco Pazos, who runs a pest control business, says they're swamped with work, handling a month's worth of requests in just a few days. An expert, Yuen Ming-chi, points out that bedbugs are as common as mosquitoes in the city, but with proper hygiene and precautions, infestations can be prevented. The problem has gained attention after outbreaks in other countries and increased international travel post-Covid-19. A local e-commerce platform saw a huge spike in sales of pest control products, indicating the public's concern and proactive measures. Pest control consultant Henry Cheng notes an uptick in bedbug-related calls, attributing it to heightened awareness rather than an actual increase in bedbugs. Yuen suggests that the cooler and less humid months are not conducive to bedbugs, and authorities should focus on prevention strategies before the weather warms up again. He reassures that with good hygiene and vigilance, infestations can be avoided, and recommends professional pest control services for effective treatment. The Airport Authority is reviewing the bedbug prevention measures of airlines from high-risk areas, and airlines have reported no findings of bedbugs on their planes. The MTR Corporation also took preventive action by disinfecting a train, although no bedbugs were found.