Britons planning summer holidays in Spain are being warned about a potential surge in cockroach infestations, driven by climate change.
Spanish environmental organisation Anecpla (National Association of Environmental Health Companies) has raised the alarm, stating that the insects could emerge in large numbers this summer, posing a significant nuisance to tourists.
Anecpla has urged bars, restaurants, and hotels to take immediate action if they detect early signs of cockroach activity.
The organisation attributes the expected increase in cockroach populations to rising temperatures and the extension of hot months further into the year.
“A summer of significant cockroach infestations is approaching,” said Jorge Galván, general director of Anecpla.
“The increase in temperatures as a result of climate change is causing insects like bedbugs or cockroaches, in this case, to exponentially accelerate their life cycle.”
According to Anecpla, scientific evidence shows that cockroaches multiply their reproduction speed when temperatures reach 28°C or higher.
Additionally, stricter EU regulations on certain pest control chemicals have made it more challenging for exterminators to combat these pests effectively. “
The heat arrives in the middle of spring and does not end until well into autumn, so cockroach populations have only expanded,” Jorge explained.
Galván also said that recent genetic mutations have made cockroaches more resistant to traditional biocide products.
“Of course, environmental health professionals evaluate the cost-benefit that exists depending on the situation and we give preference whenever possible to physical and biological measures over chemical ones,” he stated.
“But when there is no other possible solution for the adequate control of a pest such as, in this case, cockroaches, its use is essential.”
Cockroaches pose significant health risks due to their ability to spread harmful bacteria and viruses, potentially transmitting diseases to humans.
This risk is particularly concerning in the food industry, where hygiene is paramount.
Tourists are advised to inform their accommodations immediately if they notice any signs of infestation.
Preventive measures include maintaining cleanliness, not leaving food out, organizing product storage, and using rubbish containers with tight lids.
Hotels and eating establishments should also seal any cracks or holes in walls and ensure regular maintenance by environmental health professionals.
This warning follows last year’s surge in bed bug cases across parts of the UK and Europe, which horrified holidaymakers.
Bed bugs, known for their disruptive impact on daily life, invade bedrooms and feed on human blood, causing skin irritation and mental distress.
The bed bug population notably increased in European capitals such as Paris, where infestations were seen in hotel rooms and even on public transportation.