"Bedbug Panic Sweeps France: Schools Closed, Racism Accusations, and International Panic"

France has been gripped by a national hysteria over a rise in bedbug infestations, with media coverage and discussions dominating the public discourse. While there has been a real increase in cases, the panic seems disproportionate to the actual threat posed by bedbugs. Although highly unpleasant, bedbugs do not spread diseases and their bites are not long-lasting. The panic may be fueled by concerns about France's reputation among visitors, as the country is currently hosting the rugby union World Cup and will host the Olympic Games next year. The government has held a crisis meeting and taken measures to address the issue, including increased inspections and cleaning regimes.