London hospitals have been struggling with bed bug infestations over the last seven years, potentially exposing patients, including children, to the pests. Nineteen NHS trusts in London reported over 500 bed bug incidents since 2018, with some hospitals spending hundreds of pounds on pest control. Despite the NHS’ own pest guidance emphasizing the importance of pest control for safe and hygienic healthcare facilities, many hospitals in London have been affected by bed bugs.
Barts Health NHS Trust, responsible for the Royal London Children’s Hospital, and King’s College Hospital NHS Trust were among the worst affected by bed bug incidents. The Royal London Hospital, part of Barts Health NHS Trust, had the highest number of bed bug infestations in the trust, with over a third of incidents occurring in 2024. King’s College Hospital NHS Trust also faced a significant number of bed bug incidents in their major trauma center and other hospitals.
While most trusts have prepaid pest control contracts, some hospitals have had to spend a considerable amount of money on fumigation and treatment for bed bugs. South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust spent over £41,000 to manage just four bed bug incidents, while other trusts spent varying amounts on pest control. Some trusts, like The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, reported no bed bug incidents in the last seven years.
Bed bug exterminators working in hospitals have highlighted the challenge of addressing bed bug infestations in healthcare facilities. They mentioned that the high footfall in hospitals increases the likelihood of bed bug transmission and emphasized the importance of early detection. Bed bugs are not known to spread diseases to humans, but their presence can still be concerning. In response, hospitals have committed to maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients and staff, implementing preventive measures and swift responses to pest control incidents.
Some trusts, like Barts Health NHS Trust and King’s College Hospital NHS Trust, have emphasized their proactive approach to reporting and tackling bed bug infestations. Other trusts have also stated their commitment to maintaining high standards and responding quickly to pest issues. Expenditure on pest control services is necessary for many hospitals, especially in older facilities, and efforts are being made to improve facilities for mental health and community patients. Despite the challenges posed by bed bug infestations, hospitals are taking steps to address the issue and ensure the safety and well-being of their patients and staff.
