French Customs and the DGCCRF are intensifying seizures of “SNIPER 1000 EC DDVP”, an insecticide based on dichlorvos. This biocide responsible for fatal poisonings has been banned in France since 2013. However, it continues to be sold in certain businesses, in markets and on the internet, in particular to fight against bedbugs. And cases of poisoning are increasing.
As Destination Santé relayed, respiratory symptoms, particularly asthma-type, as well as eye symptoms and neurological disorders.
Since 2018, an increase in cases of poisoning by this insecticide has been observed, with 104 cases reported between January 2022 and June 2023. This increase is correlated with the increase in bedbug infestations. According to an Anses assessment dating from July 2023, 11% of French households would have been infested by bedbugs between 2017 and 2022.
Customs and fraud repression warn of the increase in seizures made on travelers
Dichlorvos-based insecticides are often illegally imported from abroad (outside the European Union) and are found in France under the names SNIPER 1000 EC DDVP® or SHOOTER 1000 EC DDVP® intended to combat pests such as bedbugs. bed or cockroaches. The DGCCRF and French Customs have issued alerts regarding the growing number of seizures of these banned insecticides, but still sold illegally in specialized stores, on market stalls, on e-commerce platforms, and even via individuals on social networks.
Since 2023, the DGCCRF has inspected more than 600 businesses across France, as well as e-commerce platforms and social networks. These checks made it possible to seize nearly 900 bottles of SNIPER 1000 EC DDVP® or SHOOTER 1000 EC DDVP®, and to remove several online advertisements.
Since the start of 2024, customs services have seized 200 vials of “SNIPER 1000” in two postal packages at the Wissous postal customs clearance office, 287 vials in freight at Roissy airport, and 1,784 vials in travelers’ luggage upon their arrival at Roissy.
Bedbugs, what to do?
In the event of a bed bug infestation, consumers are recommended to first prioritize mechanical and thermal solutions, such as vacuuming, high temperature washing, or the use of cold and heat. If the infestation persists, it is advisable to call a qualified professional, listed on the stop-punaises.gouv.fr website. Finally, if the purchase of biocidal products becomes necessary, it is preferable to turn to conventional distribution channels.
