Not only is a pest infestation annoying and potentially destructive to your property, but exposure can be detrimental to your health. Below, Aloha Termite & Pest Control, the premier exterminator in Wahiawa, HI, reveals how. This information explains how various pest can affect your health and offers some steps you can take to prevent illness.

How Are Pests Detrimental to Your Health?

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs nest in the folds of sheets and in the seams and undersides of mattresses. They feed on blood and leave tiny bites while occupants are sleeping. Although these bites are not usually serious, some people suffer mild—or even serious—allergic reactions. Bites can become painful and swollen and, if they are scratched repeatedly, may become infected and require medical treatment. They are difficult to eliminate, so if you suspect you have bed bugs, contact an experienced exterminator for treatment.

Flies & Cockroaches

Both flies and cockroaches traffic in disease. They feed off of garbage, feces, and other unpleasant things and then track pathogens across kitchen counters, onto unprotected plates of food, and elsewhere. To minimize the health risks of flies and cockroaches, sweep up any spilled foodstuffs quickly, never leave food out in the open, empty your garbage can regularly and cover it when not in use.

Rodents

Rodents such as mice, rats, and raccoons often take up residence in attics, chimneys, crawl spaces, and other areas of the home without the owners realizing. As your exterminator will attest, they can transmit 35 different types of diseases through bites, by contaminating food and water, and by indirect contact. For instance, you can get sick by inhaling airborne pathogens emitted from their feces and urine. As with roach control, never leave food out and keep your kitchen, bathrooms, and other areas as clean as possible to avoid attracting rodents.

The information above should provide a basic understanding of how pests can affect your health and why it's so important to contact an exterminator when you suspect an infestation. If you're in Oahu, get in touch with Aloha Termite & Pest Control. They've been serving the island since 1999 and offer a wide variety of rodent, bird, insect, and termite control services. Visit their website to request more information or call (808) 622-2268 to schedule a consultation.