American TikToker’s Paris Hotel Bedbug Horror Sparks Travel Alarm

The dream Paris vacation of American TikToker Kassidy King (@anxious_baddie) turned into a skin-crawling nightmare when she discovered her hotel room was overrun with bedbugs—and documented the entire infestation for her 14.8 million horrified viewers. Shocking footage shows insects swarming walls and furniture in daylight, while later clips reveal King’s body covered in angry bites, including her face and eyelids.

Viral Bedbug Infestation Exposes Travel Risks
King’s initial TikTok video displayed bedbugs actively crawling across furniture in her Paris hotel room. Despite the visible infestation, she reportedly continued her stay. A follow-up video showcased the brutal aftermath: inflamed bites covering her arms, legs, torso, and even her eyelid. “Yes, they were feasting on my face,” King stated in the clip. The videos ignited global concern, particularly among Americans planning European travel.

This incident echoes Paris’ ongoing bedbug challenges. In 2023, the city faced widespread infestations during Fashion Week, while 2024 Olympic preparations included specialized pest control protocols. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), bedbugs are notoriously difficult to eradicate once established, with treatments often requiring multiple professional interventions.

Online Backlash Over Contamination Concerns
King’s revelation sparked intense criticism on Reddit and TikTok. Users expressed alarm that she didn’t immediately change hotels or quarantine her belongings before flying home to the U.S., potentially spreading the insects. “Anything for content I guess,” remarked one Redditor, summarizing the frustration over her decision to stay despite the severe infestation.

Entomologists emphasize the importance of post-travel precautions. Dr. Changlu Wang, a leading urban entomologist at Rutgers University, advises: “Immediately launder clothes on high heat and inspect luggage outdoors after staying in any accommodation. Bedbugs easily hitchhike in textiles.” The CDC notes that while bedbugs don’t transmit diseases, their bites can cause severe itching, allergic reactions, and secondary infections.

Must Know
Q: How can I check for bedbugs in hotel rooms?
A: Inspect mattress seams, headboards, and furniture joints using a flashlight. Look for live insects, tiny white eggs, or dark fecal spots. Store luggage on racks away from walls and beds.

Q: What should I do if bitten by bedbugs?
A: Wash bites with soap and water to prevent infection. Use corticosteroid cream for itching and avoid scratching. Consult a doctor if bites blister or show signs of infection.

Q: Could Paris bedbugs impact my U.S. travels?
A: Bedbugs exist globally. The primary risk is transporting them home in luggage. Always inspect accommodations and follow post-travel decontamination steps regardless of destination.

Q: How do I prevent bringing bedbugs home?
A: Before re-entering your home, unpack luggage in a garage or balcony. Seal clothing in plastic bags and wash/dry on the highest heat settings possible. Freeze non-washable items for 72 hours.

 

This disturbing incident underscores a critical travel reality: bedbug infestations require immediate action, not content creation. King’s viral nightmare serves as a stark warning for all travelers to prioritize health over social media engagement. Always inspect accommodations thoroughly, leave immediately if bugs are found, and decontaminate belongings before returning home. Protect yourself and others—don’t become an unwitting carrier.