Hidden Health Hazards: What Could Be Lurking in Your Home?

Pest problems in the home are not only unpleasant and unsightly, they can also cause serious health issues.

Good housekeeping can prevent many pests from getting a foothold in your home, but even in the cleanest homes, small cracks and crevices can invite a variety of unwelcome guests.

Here are just a few problems these pests can cause.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches can infest any property and cause increased allergic reactions.

Their body parts, droppings, shells, and saliva contain proteins that can increase asthma symptoms in affected individuals. Over 30 types of bacteria can be spread on the bodies of cockroaches, including E. coli, and salmonella.

Ants

Ant infestations can endanger health by carrying bacteria and fungus from areas where they build their nests into the home to contaminate areas where food is stored.

Many different species of ants can infest homes, and they must be properly identified in order to find the right treatment to eliminate them successfully.

Spiders

Spiders may hide in attics or basements, behind dressers or other heavy furniture, or in woodpiles and garden sheds.

Some species are venomous, producing severe bites that cause rashes or allergic reactions. These bites may require medical treatment. Deadly reactions are rare but can occur in children or older people.

Wasps and bees

Bees, wasps and yellow jackets can cause painful stings, but the more serious concern is severe allergic reactions to the stings that can occur in some individuals.

Removal of nests will ensure that family and guests are safe from these dangers.

Ticks

Ticks are generally found in wooded areas and are generally brought into the home by hikers or pets. These insects can spread Lyme disease, which causes a red bite surrounded by a circular rash, flu-like symptoms, and long-term illness.

To make your home a healthier and safer environment, specialists at Pest Control in Fairfax recommend using natural pest control products that are better for your health than harsh chemicals.

Mosquitoes

If you have areas on your property that collect water during rainy periods of the year, you may experience a problem with mosquitoes.

These insects feed on blood and can spread diseases, such as West Nile virus and other illnesses. In addition, the bites of mosquitoes can cause severe allergic reactions in some people.

Rodents

Mice and rats are not only horrifying to find in your home, they can also carry a number of serious diseases, including hantavirus, leptospirosis, Lassa fever, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, lymphocytic chorlo-meningitis and plague.

Food and water supplies may be contaminated by rodent feces. Careful management of rodent problems can help to prevent the spread of these and other diseases.

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Rachelle Wilber

Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn't on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym.

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