"Japan Battles Dual Threat: Resilient Bedbugs and Flu Medicine Shortage"

Infestations of more resilient bedbugs have been reported in Japan, with the Japan Pest Control Association receiving a significant increase in inquiries about bedbugs. The rise in bedbug population is attributed to an increase in travelers to Japan, although the number of inquiries remained consistent during the COVID-19 pandemic when borders were closed. Bedbugs are difficult to locate as they live in cracks and gaps of various objects and feed on human and pet blood. The insects are well-adapted to human habitats and can survive for several months without feeding. Despite the decline in inbound tourists, the rate of bedbug inquiries did not decrease significantly, indicating that bedbugs may be spreading within the country.