The health and safety of our homes are a priority, and common pests can become dangerous. From roaches to ticks, some everyday pests may seem harmless at first glance, but these invaders can cause risks to your health.
Here are six potential health complications posed by some of the most common household insects.
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Preventing pests from invading your home
While house owners can buy pest control products from stores, you may need to contact professional help when preventing and removing pests. Professionals possess the necessary expertise and resources to identify, assess and eliminate different insects and rodents. GreenHow pest control Boston can help you quickly and effectively remove pests in your home with the help of highly effective pest control methods.
Allergies
Allergies caused by common household pests can be a very troubling issue for some homeowners. Dust mites and cockroaches are most commonly associated with allergies.
Dust mites are microscopic bugs that feed off house dust and leave droppings that contain proteins that can trigger an allergic reaction. Cockroaches release allergens from their body fragments and saliva, which often cause a sneezing fit if inhaled.
Asthma
Asthma is a respiratory disorder that commonly affects adults and children and can be caused or exacerbated by common household pests. Various pests, including cockroaches, rodents, and fleas, can all lead to asthmatic reactions in those with sensitivity toward them.
Rodents carry various allergens, including saliva and urine, that can be inhaled or even ingested, resulting in an asthma attack. In particular, those who suffer from IgE-mediated allergies are more likely to experience severe symptoms in response to rodent exposure.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a vector-borne illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, most commonly spread through tick bites. Lyme disease can lead to chronic health problems and even life-threatening complications when left untreated.
The best way to prevent Lyme disease is to avoid contact with infected ticks. Avoiding contact includes routinely checking your body after being outdoors, as well as using insect repellants to deter tick-carrying insects from entering your home.
Salmonella
Salmonella is a foodborne illness caused by many pathogens like bacteria and viruses. Some pests, such as cockroaches, rats, and mice, carry these pathogens and can spread them to food supplies.
These organisms can live for extended periods in moist areas, so be sure your home is free of standing water or other sources that serve as a breeding ground for pests. Additionally, regularly cleaning up food spills and disposing of rotting food can help reduce the risk of salmonella outbreaks.
E.Coli
Escherichia coli, or E. coli, is a bacteria commonly associated with food contamination and animal waste products. This pathogen gets spread by flies and cockroaches, which feed off decaying material and can spread through contact with infected animals or surfaces. Keep your home clean and sanitary to reduce your risk of E. coli contamination.
Rabies
Rabies is an infectious viral illness, most commonly caused by bats, found in many species of animals that invade nerve cells and can cause harm and even death if left untreated. Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection caused by exposure to bat droppings which, in severe cases, can lead to breathing problems or other infections.
Wrap Up
Common pests like mice, cockroaches, and mosquitoes could cause human illness. These illnesses can range from minor skin irritations to more severe infections and even diseases. Be sure to take preventative measures, such as calling an exterminator to ensure your health and safety.