Vector-borne diseases (of which many are transmitted to humans and animals by pests) constitute over 17% of all infectious diseases in the world, according to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO). Does that mouse scampering across your kitchen floor feel like more than a mere disturbance?
The truth is that household pests are not just an annoyance. They can pose a serious health threat to you and your family. From common insects to rodents, these uninvited guests can harbor diseases, bring on allergies, and even threaten the safety of your home. Remember, the best way to tackle pest problems is to contact pest control in Orem services.
How Can Pests Make You Sick?
Pest can make you sick and here is how:
They Can Cause Respiratory Issues
Pest droppings can affect your respiratory health. Cockroach allergens impact about 26% of the U.S. allergy population, according to a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. These allergens are from their saliva, feces, and dander (shed skin). Rodent dander also can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. When rodent urine dries, the protein contained in the urine can become airborne, allowing it to be easily inhaled and potentially dangerous, especially for young children and the elderly.
Contribute to Food Contamination
According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, pests contaminate approximately 20% of the world’s food supply. Having insects and rodents invade your pantry exposes food to being contaminated with droppings, urine, hair, and skin. This contamination can cause food poisoning and gastrointestinal problems. A single mouse can drop droppings up to 70 times in one day, leaving much more food potentially contaminated than it eats.
They Transit Disease
Many chronic illnesses may be vector-borne diseases transmitted by pests to humans. Rodents, including mice and rats, can transmit hantavirus, salmonellosis, and leptospirosis through feces, urine, or saliva. Rats and mice can spread more than 35 diseases globally, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cockroaches host at least 33 types of bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella; six parasitic worms; and over seven other human pathogens.
They Cause Skin Problems
Some pests do not care about your skin health. Bed bugs do not spread disease, but their bites lead to itchy welts. According to a 2019 survey, close to 20% of Americans have experienced or know someone who has had an infestation of bedbugs. Mosquitoes can spread illnesses such as West Nile virus and Zika, and ticks can transmit Lyme disease, which affects some 476,000 Americans each year, according to the latest estimates from the C.D.C.
How Can You Prevent Pest Infestation At Home?
Seal Entry Points
Prevention is the first line of defense against pests. If you were to take a look around your home, you would probably find cracks in the walls, holes around pipes, ripped screens or other means of entry. Mice can fit through an opening the size of a quarter. Seal these gaps with caulk, steel wool, or weather stripping. Do not neglect your roof: Damaged shingles or gaps in soffits create entry points for rodents and insects.
Maintain Cleanliness
Sanitation takes away the food sources for pests. Wipe countertops after cooking, store food in tight containers, and do not leave dirty dishes overnight. During days of well-earned cleanings, so much as a single crumb can feed certain pests for days. Routine vacuuming removes food scraps and can also get rid of pest eggs or larvae that may have taken up residence in carpets or upholstery.
Reduce Moisture
Many pests, especially cockroaches and silverfish, love moisture. Repair leaky pipes right away; use dehumidifiers in basements, and make sure you have proper drainage around your home’s foundation. If you create humidity levels below 50 percent in your home, experts explain, many of these common pests will have trouble setting up shop.
Is Professional Pest Control Service Needed?
DIY methods allow you to cope with minor pest problems, but often, treatment from skilled professionals is required to combat established infestations.
But with the advantage of professional pest service, they will give you preventive treatment that acts as a long-term barrier for the next infestation. More importantly, they can identify the specific pest species in your home and target treatments accordingly.
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