Every day, we coexist and encounter several pests that can potentially be harmful to us. Among these are silent infiltrators that exist in our homes, gardens, lawns, and rooms and can cause many life-threatening diseases to us. These silent infiltrators include insects, rodents, and more.
Thus, it is important to understand the diseases each of these pests transmits to protect the environment, our neighbors, and most importantly, ourselves. Certain problems cause diseases to man and other animals; here are a few common diseases caused by pests that you should be aware of.
Babesiosis
It is an infectious disease caused by the Babesia parasite, the black-legged tick predominantly found in the United States. It is transmitted to humans via the bite of these ticks or through infected blood transfusion. Infection can be mild with symptoms like common fever, muscle aches, headache, and sweats, to severe with symptoms like anemia, organ failure, and even death.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is another common illness caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi and spread by the infected black-legged ticks native to North America and Europe. These ticks are originally harmless. However, they contact bacteria when they feed on the blood of infected mammals, transmitting it to humans. It is often transferred into the home through dogs, and infection causes symptoms like flu, joint pain, and severe respiratory issues.
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
Hantavirus (HPS) is spread from wild rodents, particularly mice and rats, to people. The virus can be easily released in the air in confined spaces when disturbed, such as sweeping. HPS is a severe illness caused by exposure to the droppings or urine of rodents that carry the virus. It is important to take precautions when cleaning up an enclosed space such as a shed, cabin, or trailer where mice have nested, or rodent droppings are present.
A&M Pest Control Can Help
Pests carrying diseases are common in the home. At A&M Pest Control in Cape Cod and the South Shore, we help homeowners eliminate disease-causing problems through our state-of-the-art equipment. You are assured a safe, hazard-free environment for you and your family.
