The Federal Government has heightened surveillance at all points of entry in the country following the outbreak of bed bug infestation in France and other parts of Europe.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof.  Muhammad Ali Pate, who disclosed this in a statement yesterday in Abuja, said 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.

In a statement by the ministry’s Director, Media and Public Relations, Patricia Deworitshe, he said: “Bed bugs are small, flat reddish-brown wingless insects that infest beds, sofas, luggage and other furniture. They often crawl onto people’s body or luggage to travel to new surroundings. While they are not known to cause any illness, their bites causes 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.”

Pate stated that the ministry remains committed to ensuring that appropriate public measures and responses are put in place to contain the bed bug infestation nationwide.

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