Whilst many think the effects of pests are limited to the nuisance caused through trying to get rid of them, there are in fact several damaging effects of infestations.
Infestations can come from a number of insects, rodents or even birds, but the damaging effects are all the same and can not only be an inconvenience for you to deal with, but also potentially life threatening.
Some of the damaging effects of pests include:
Disease
Insects and rodents in particular, are common carriers of disease. Common diseases found to be carried by both include:
- Lyme disease – caused by bacteria carried by ticks. If you are bitten by a tick carrying the bacteria it then enters your bloodstream making you ill.
- Salmonella – often spread by rodents. Rodents can carry salmonella in their faeces which can then transfer to their fur or skin and spread. If you touch a contaminated surface there is then a risk the bacteria can be ingested.
- Hantavirus infections – a group of viruses spread by rodents in the same way as salmonella, but causes anything from mild flu-like symptoms too haemorrhagic diseases.
- Leptospirosis – also known as Weil’s disease and can be spread through the fur or skin of infected rodents.
Allergies
Another common problem pests bring is allergens into your home. Their shedding skin can pollute indoor air causing allergic reactions.
Insects such as wasps and bees also carry venom in their sting which can prove lethal if you are allergic.
House Damage
Pests can create structural damage in your home. Those such as mice and rats will often chew through electrical wires, causing short circuits and potentially house fires.
In addition to wires, if you have any wooden aspects to your home, pests such as termites can chew through the wood, creating structural damage.
Limiting Your Exposure To Pests
Luckily you can limit the damaging effects of pests.
Most pests enter your home through cracks and gaps around your windows or doors, particularly in the winter where many pests are seeking a warm place to shelter. By covering or sealing these openings, pests such as mice which can get in the smallest of gaps, can no longer enter your home.
If however you do suspect some pests may have made their way into your home it is vital that you contact experts, such as ours at Holgate’s Pest Control, straight away. The longer the infestation is left the greater the number of pests usually found and the harder the problem becomes to treat.
Our experts at Holgate’s Pest Control are highly trained and experienced in the art of dealing with pests; removing them from your home safely and doing so without causing damage. Holgate’s Pest Control also offers professional aftercare advice on how you can minimise the risk of any pests returning to the same place or another in your home.