Bedbug Outbreak at Mucem: Temporary Closure of Exhibitions
Three exhibitions at the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (Mucem) in Marseille have been temporarily closed due to the discovery of bedbugs. The museum, however, remains partially open to the public with free access to its latest exhibitions, 'Naturist Paradise' and 'Exploits, Masterpieces'.
Swift Action and Assurance of Safety
The presence of bedbugs was first detected late Sunday afternoon, with confirmation coming on Tuesday. Following this, sniffer dogs were employed to inspect the entire museum, revealing traces of bedbugs in three of the five exhibition rooms. Pierre-Olivier Costa, the museum's president, emphasized that the infestation is localized and poses no risk of spreading. Specialized companies are scheduled to intervene over the weekend to ensure the affected areas are treated and safe for reopening by Wednesday at the latest.
Minimal Impact on Museum Operations
Despite the temporary closure, 95% of the museum remains unaffected. The management has taken precautions to treat the entire exhibition areas rather than just the affected furniture. This comprehensive approach aims to reassure both the public and the museum staff, some of whom had expressed concerns after a few employees were bitten. The products used for extermination are guaranteed to be safe for humans, objects, and fabrics, ensuring that the museum can resume full operations without further issues.
- The museum management has been proactive in addressing the bedbug issue, ensuring that the affected areas are treated thoroughly. This swift response aims to minimize disruption and maintain visitor confidence.
- The decision to keep part of the museum open for free during the treatment period is a gesture to maintain public engagement and demonstrate transparency in handling the situation.
- The resurgence of bedbugs in developed countries over the past thirty years is attributed to more nomadic lifestyles, increased second-hand purchases, and growing resistance to insecticides. This context highlights the broader challenges faced by institutions like Mucem in maintaining pest-free environments.
