A housing advocacy group is sounding the alarm about the impact of bedbug infestations in Montreal with the release of a new report calling for stronger government action.
The Housing Committee of La Petite Patrie published the report Friday to coincide with World Sleep Day, highlighting what it describes as a growing public health and social issue across the island.
Titled “The scourge of bedbugs in Montreal: a call to action,” the study was produced with financial support from the Direction régionale de la santé publique de Montréal.
According to the report, pest control companies recorded more than 41,000 cases of bedbug infestations in the city between 2014 and 2024. However, researchers say the real number is likely much higher because many infestations are never reported.
The document also points to the health effects associated with infestations, including stress, sleep disruption and anxiety, while noting that the issue disproportionately affects lower-income households.
Advocates are urging governments, public health officials and community organizations to work together on solutions. The report, which includes several recommendations, has been sent to government ministries, the city and other officials in hopes of prompting action.