Pests cause not only foul odor in your house but also structural damage and health risks. Living with these unwanted guests puts your food and surfaces at risk of contamination. Plus, some members of your family may be allergic to such pests. Because of this, you want to keep your home as pest-free as possible. Also, it’s important to learn more about the impacts of a pest infestation, especially on human health.
Health Risks of Pest Infestations
A pest issue can cause health issues that can range from minor irritations to severe illnesses. Below are common health risks related to pest infestations:
- Disease transmission. Rodents, cockroaches, and other pests can carry and transmit different kinds of diseases to people such as Lyme disease, hantavirus, leptospirosis, and others.
- Allergies. Pests such as dust mites, rodents, and roaches can trigger allergic reactions in people. Common symptoms include itchy eyes, sneezing, and respiratory issues.
- Bites and stings. Mosquitoes, bed bugs, and fleas can bite people, causing itchy, painful welts. Also, these pests can transmit diseases through their bites.
- Mental health issues. Pest infestations may affect your mental health. After you eliminate an infestation, you may suffer from insomnia or anxiety because you worry about the possible recurrence. Also, some people develop a phobia of particular pests and have difficulty going about their day.
- Poisoning. Certain pests such as scorpions and spiders can be poisonous, causing severe harm or fatality in people.
The health risks associated with a pest infestation increase as the pests continuously breed and spread disease in your house. Also, they can contaminate your surfaces and food with harmful bacteria.
Signs of Pest Infestations
Identifying the presence of pests in your house can help you stop it before any severe health issues occur. Here are signs you should look for:
- Pest droppings. Finding insect or rodent droppings in your house means you have a pest issue.
- Gnaw marks. Rodents leave gnaw marks as they chew items and damage wires in your house.
- Strange smells. Musty odors can indicate a hidden infestation.
- Dead bugs. You may be dealing with a pest infestation if you find insect carcasses near light fixtures or windowsills.
- Nesting materials. The presence of shredded insulation, fabric, or paper can indicate an infestation.
- Visible pests. Finding live or dead insects like roaches and ants inside your house implies a growing issue.
If you think your home has been infested with pests, reach out to a reputable pest control company. This is the best step to take to avoid the health risks related to pests.
Kinds of Diseases that Pest Can Transmit
You will never want to think about getting sick due to the presence of pests in your house. Sadly, this can happen if you are dealing with an infestation. Pests like rodents and insects can spread different diseases to people. Once they breed and establish themselves in your house, the risk of diseases and infection increases. Some of the diseases they can spread include the following:
- West Nile Virus. This disease comes from mosquitoes. It can lead to flu-like symptoms and can be fatal.
- Lyme disease. Ticks transmit this disease, causing fever, a rash, and fatigue.
- Hantavirus. Rodents can carry hantavirus and spread it to humans. This disease presents flu-like symptoms and can be deadly.
- Rat-bite fever. Rodents are responsible for transmitting this disease that presents symptoms like muscle pain, rash, and fever.
- Salmonella. Rodents and insects carry salmonella, which causes gastrointestinal issues like food poisoning.
Professional pest exterminators can effectively eliminate the pests you are dealing with in your house. They can protect you and your loved ones from the diseases associated with pests. They have the knowledge and expertise to ensure you have a healthy and pest-free living environment.
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