A council said it had received an "alarming number" of calls to tackle bedbugs amid fears that outbreaks in Paris could spread to the UK.

Luton Council issued guidance on what people should do to prepare their homes for "treatment" But it warned there were not "limitless resources" to tackle the issue. Writing on its website, the council said: "The pest control service is currently receiving an alarming number of bedbug jobs on a weekly basis."

‍

‍

Bedbugs have been reported in cinemas, trains, hospitals and schools amid national panic over the issue in France, with many cases focused on Paris. In its post, Luton Council issued advice to homeowners wanting a visit from a council pest control officer. The council went on to give advice to the public, suggesting that ahead of visits, it said beds should be stripped with bedcovers placed into sealed bin liners and, ideally, stored in a bath.

Wardrobes, drawers and bookcases should be emptied and contents also placed in sealed bin liners. All furniture should be pulled away from walls with pictures and posters taken off walls to allow for inspection.

The council, which has not released figures about the numbers of calls it has received over bedbugs, said: "Successful treatment can be a lengthy process and the council does not have limitless resources to counter this pest."

‍