When was the last time you had pest control at home? People usually think of it when they spot a bug infestation or a mouse. Right? However, you need to understand that with pests and insects, you can never really go with the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ approach. They are unwanted intruders in our houses that make people uncomfortable and can cause several health risks.
They contaminate surfaces, spread different diseases, trigger allergic reactions, and damage property as well. The list of negative effects of insects on humans and their health is long. Hence, it’s crucial to know the dangers they pose and the ways to keep them away.
Household pests like cockroaches, termites, bed bugs, rodents, ants, and millipedes can cause a range of problems. Cockroaches spread diseases and contaminate food, termites destroy wood structures, bed bugs bite and disrupt sleep, rodents chew through items and carry diseases, ants invade kitchens and contaminate food, and millipedes in house can become a nuisance when they invade homes in large numbers. Managing these pests is crucial for a clean and healthy living environment.
Effects of Pests on Human Health
It is important to know about the health risks and dangers posed by pests to ensure the right kind of protection. So, here we go:
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Allergic Reactions
Home pests carry allergens and being close to them can trigger allergic reactions or aggravate asthma. Studies have revealed that around 80% of people are allergic to dust mites and 30% to cockroaches. Their presence in the same room or ventilation can cause several health problems. Also, if bitten or stung by a pest, humans are likely to suffer from skin reactions or get rashes. Failing to take immediate treatment or scratching the bite may lead to infection.
Health problems caused by cockroaches, mites, and bugs include eczema, nasal congestion, and dermatitis. Moreover, a bee or wasp sting can result in anaphylactic shock. These insects are commonly found in curtains, carpets, and other fabrics so if you have any sensitive allergies, then either avoid using such fabrics or use bug repellent to keep them at bay. Also, prefer to seek cockroach control services for long-term and effective solutions.
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Transmission of Infections
Pest infestation combines different microorganisms, bacteria, and allergens, which often leads to the transmission of infections and other several health risks. Rodents, insects, cockroaches, and fleas are seen around contaminated areas, such as sewers and pipes, where they spend most of their time. It is quite easy for germs to stick to their backs and ride along as they fly around your home. These household pests are known to carry E. coli bacteria, salmonella, and Lyme disease, hence, increasing the chances of making you sick.
Although plague is no longer a fear, there are several risks and diseases rats carry with them, including salmonella, which can contaminate kitchen slabs, cookware, and even food. Also, airborne particles from mice can cause transmission of Hantavirus. Similarly, ticks, fleas, and cockroaches carry various bacteria, diseases, and fevers, which can severely affect human health.
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Bite or Sting
If you have a lot of pests at home, then there are chances of you getting stung or bitten by them. This is one of the most immediate dangers of bug infestation and its consequences can be anywhere from small sores to hospitalization. Even insect stings can cause major health issues, especially if you already have an allergy.
Bed bugs health risks can increase if they found their way to your room and onto your clothes or bed sheets. They hide between sheets in daylight and come out at night, and their bite can cause painful sores.
In addition, bees, wasps, and hornets attack multiple times and their sting can result in costly hospitalization. Therefore, it is important to take instant measures for preventing wasps and other yellow stingers.
Spider bites can vary based on their species, and the most dangerous one may need immediate medical attention.
Preventive Measures
Now that you are aware of different types of pests and the dangers related to each, let’s read about a few preventive measures to protect your home from infestation:
- Seal cracks and openings in walls and cover all the gaps in window frames.
- Moisture, clutter, food crumbs, and dust provide shelter to bugs so clean your home regularly.
- Seek professional help for pest control for your home and get instant and assured protection.
- Use pest traps and bait to capture them. It is a small-scale solution to eliminate bugs but can come in handy to prevent initial infestation.
- Make sure that your food is covered as its aroma attracts pests who can contaminate the food.
- Keep your surroundings dry and check that the drainage system is away from the foundation or any place where water can puddle.
You have to be quick and attentive when it comes to avoiding health risks brought by pests. Regular pest control and certain protective measures can keep you and your family safe. So, equip yourself with the right information to mitigate the chances of illness and ensure a safer environment.