Pest infestations

Pest infestations can be very annoying. They can make your house feel dirty and uncomfortable. Unfortunately, pest infestations can also cause a number of health problems in children and adults. A pest infestation could pose at least five different health hazards.

Dysentery, Salmonella and Gastroenteritis

One of the main health hazards from pests comes in the form of contaminated food. Pests like cockroaches, mice and flies all carry bacteria. They can spread bacteria to food in your home through direct contact or by delayed contact with droppings. The result could be serious illnesses like dysentery, salmonella and gastroenteritis that cause pain, dehydration and other intestinal issues.

Hantavirus

Mice can carry a disease known as hantavirus. Hantavirus can cause serious problems in humans from respiratory issues and hemorrhagic fever to death. Humans can contract hantavirus through droppings. It is even possible to get it by breathing in the dust from the feces or urine left by the mice. This is why dealing with any rodent problem in your home is important.

Asthma and Respiratory Issues

Roaches, mice and many other insects can all lead to respiratory issues. The droppings and carcasses of cockroaches release a protein that triggers allergic reactions. This can cause severe asthma attacks. Long-term exposure can harm the lungs even if you do not have pre-existing respiratory issues. The problems will persist and grow worse as long as the infestation continues.

Leptospirosis
Rodents can spread leptospirosis to human beings. The bacterial disease can be spread when humans come into contact with rodent urine or feces. It can be spread by eating or drinking anything that has been exposed to fluids from a mouse or rat. Leptospirosis causes fever and can lead to kidney failure, liver failure, brain swelling and potentially death. Avoiding leptospirosis means keeping rodents out of the home.

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is a serious health hazard when your home has been infested with mosquitoes. Mosquitoes transmit this virus when they bite. West Nile can lead to a life-threatening illness in some people. It can be fatal.

It is important to respond to signs of pests in your home immediately. Do not wait since this provides the pests time to start reproducing and making the problem worse. You should immediately start taking steps to eliminate the pests as soon as signs of a problem appear.