Both the flu and the common cold are no laughing matter – we all try to avoid getting sick whenever we can! It makes us feel awful, we risk passing it on to our loved ones, and we may have to miss work or fun plans because of it.

But your sneezing colleague isn’t the only thing you need to avoid this winter. Did you know that many types of common household pests can spread disease or make you sick? That’s right! Keep reading for more information.

Can plagues make you sick?

When we think of catching something, we usually think of our fellow man. But the reality is that there are several types of pests that can make you sick. Let’s dive into some of the most common, and how you can take preventative measures this winter!

Cockroaches

These pests are best known for their survival skills. It takes special knowledge to get rid of them because they are so well adapted to living with people. And while they aren’t particularly linked to any specific disease outbreaks, they are an allergen source and can trigger asthma symptoms. So, if you find yourself sneezing or coughing more than usual in your home, it could be a cockroach problem.

The most important thing you can do to prevent cockroaches from moving into your home is to prevent them from entering. Carefully inspect anything you carry around your home—whether it’s shopping bags, cardboard boxes, or holiday decorations. Sealing any cracks or crevices around your home where they can sneak in will also help. Also, be sure to dispose of food and clean up any crumbs or spills as soon as possible.

Rodents

Unlike cockroaches, rodents are linked to specific disease outbreaks, including plague, murine typhus, leptospirosis, and more. They are not the kind of houseguests you want! Getting rid of them can be difficult because they are very intelligent and learn to be careful of things like traps and poison.

One of the most effective strategies for getting rid of rodents is to eliminate their food sources. This means storing food in airtight containers, taking out the trash immediately, washing dishes immediately, and regularly inspecting your home for crumbs or spills. Removing places where mice or rats can breed will also help. Any rubbish or firewood you have near your home should be removed and stored elsewhere.

Flies

The house fly is considered the most common and the most dangerous fly species. Because they live so close to humans, are so abundant in the United States, and can easily spread disease, this is not something you should take lightly! Typhoid fever, cholera and shigellosis can all be spread to humans by the common house fly.

Like many of the disease-spreading pests we’ve mentioned, proper home sanitation is the best defense. This means both denying the pests food and convenient places to breed. Be extra careful when it comes to leaving food out if you want to get rid of flies. Throwing away leftovers and storing snacks in airtight containers may not be enough—rinse cans before throwing them away, remove all food particles from dirty dishes, and take out your trash more often.

Fleas

While people may not have known it at the time, these tiny insects are what caused the bubonic plague. In fact, while most people’s first thought when they hear “flea” is their pet, their second thought is probably the pest. It is therefore not surprising that fleas can also transmit other harmful diseases to humans. Murine Typhus, some species of tapeworms, and more can be transmitted to humans.

The most important thing to remember when treating a flea infestation is that you need a blanket approach. This means targeting all pets and all areas of your home at once – otherwise the fleas may just move around each time you treat a specific area. Vacuuming and steam cleaning carpet will help, as well as any pets you have on flea prevention.

When in doubt, call the experts

Pests are much more than just annoying. They can cause serious harm to you and your family if left untreated. If you’ve tried the above recommendations and are still having trouble getting rid of an infestation, it’s time to call Vulcan Termite & Pest Control. We can get rid of even the most stubborn pests—keeping you and your family safe. Get in touch with us today.