News

The palm weevil is one of the most damaging insect pests of palm trees, and is a threat to plant biodiversity in many countries. This insect has spread rapidly along the Mediterranean coast in the last ten years or more, and is classified as a regulated quarantine pest and a major danger to plant health in France. It is therefore subject to compulsory control measures. In order to curb the spread of the pest, which was introduced into the country in 2006, control strategies are being implemented at local and international levels. This context led ANSES to conduct an expert appraisal to identify better strategies to control the red palm weevil, particularly in the French Mediterranean area where palm trees are in danger of disappearing.

ANSES, the DGS and the DGCCRF are reiterating the risks associated with preparing and handling "slime", a sticky and elastic putty for kneading that is very popular with children and adolescents. The repeated and prolonged handling of this putty can cause skin irritations and allergies that are sometimes severe. From January to May 2018, the number of reported cases was double the number for all of 2017. In May, an initial alert was issued following cases of skin lesions reported by the French poison control centres, the Revidal-Gerda dermato-allergology vigilance network and the AllergOS network. In particular, the health authorities wish to draw attention to the risks associated with "home-made" slime, which exposes users to direct contact with products such as detergents and glues misused for this purpose. Users are also reminded of the importance of complying with the precautions for use indicated on ready-to-use slime and kits sold in shops.