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This chapter explores the recent infestation of bed bugs in Paris, discussing the psychological impact on residents and tourists, changes in behavior, and the government's response and crisis talks with transportation operators. It also highlights the increase in sightings reported on social media and the potential impact on tourism during major events.

The Guardian’s Paris correspondent, Angelique Chrisafis, tells Madeleine Finlay about the explosion in bedbug sightings in the city, and how residents and officials have reacted. And Prof Jerome Goddard explains what makes the creatures so difficult to eradicate, and why the biggest threat they pose may be to our mental health. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod