South Korea Deploys Bedbug Detection Dog at Incheon Airport
In a proactive move to combat the spread of bedbugs, South Korea has introduced a specially trained police dog named Sico at Incheon Airport. This initiative comes as the country prepares for the return of athletes from the 2024 Paris Olympics. With 32 medals won, including 13 gold, South Korea ranks eighth in the medal standings, and the influx of returning athletes raises concerns about potential bedbug infestations.
Innovative Partnership to Protect Public Health
Sico, a two-year-old beagle, has been trained in collaboration with Cisco, South Korea's largest pest control company, to detect bedbug pheromones. The dog can locate these pests within two minutes, boasting an impressive accuracy rate of up to 95%. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has announced that the bedbug detection services will be available from August 9 until September 8, coinciding with the Paralympics, ensuring the safety of travelers returning from high-risk areas.
Increased Measures Against Bedbugs
In addition to deploying Sico, South Korea is ramping up its bedbug control efforts. Experts with over ten years of experience will assist in inspecting luggage, and the frequency of aircraft disinfection has increased from once a month to once a week, particularly for flights arriving from Paris. This response is crucial as South Korea had enjoyed a largely bedbug-free environment until recent outbreaks linked to post-pandemic travel. Official reports revealed 950 cases between November and February, highlighting the urgency of these preventive measures.
