May 8, 2020, 08:30 AM by Fred Speer

As the weather gets warmer, many people begin experiencing the unpleasant symptoms of seasonal allergies. But what if springtime isn’t the only thing that causes a stuffy nose?

Cockroaches, rodents, and other common household pests could also be behind their allergy and asthma symptoms, making pest prevention a key to staying healthy.

May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, and Clark, your neighborly pest control, lawn care, and termite control expert, would like to share tips that can help keep you from being exposed to the health threats caused by both indoor and outdoor pests.

Everyone knows pests like cockroaches and rodents are filthy and germ-ridden. However, many may not be aware that they also pose serious and sometimes life-threatening risks to humans, too. In fact, 63 percent of American homes contain allergens from cockroaches, most of which are introduced through their saliva, droppings, or exoskeletons cast off from molting.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, people are spending more time indoors than usual, which could cause an increase in allergy and asthma symptoms triggered by pests. Additionally, people seeking fresh air in their backyards or on nearby trails risk encountering other pests such as ants, ticks, and mosquitoes. The latter two pests are well-known vectors of many deadly diseases.

Exposure to any of these pests can be dangerous. So it’s crucial that you remain vigilant in your prevention efforts to avoid the health threats posed by pests, both inside and outside of your home.

Clark has identified the following pest-proofing tips to help limit pest exposure this month:

• Seal cracks and crevices around your home with caulk, steel wool, or both, paying attention to areas where utilities and pipes enter the structure.
• Remove areas of standing water such as baby pools and birdbaths around your property, as they offer ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
• Dispose of garbage regularly in a sealed bin and store dry foods in an airtight container.
• Dust hard surfaces with a damp cloth or dust rag and vacuum at least once a week using a vacuum with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter.
• Clean kitchen surfaces daily, including counters, stovetops, and sinks. Avoid piling dishes in the sink and clean up crumbs and spills right away to avoid attracting ants.
• Keep pet food stored away in an airtight container and wash food and water bowls often.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when spending time outdoors to reduce exposure to ticks and mosquitoes.
• Apply insect repellent containing at least 20 percent DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Check yourself, family, and pets for ticks before going indoors and remove them immediately to decrease the threat disease transmission.

Pest control has been declared an essential service during the COVID-19 crisis by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and California and northwestern Nevada’s trusted pest management expert, Clark, is ready to serve you. Call or text (800) WE-NEED-YOU (936-3339) or send an email to clarkcares@clarkpest.com with your pest questions or concerns.

Until next time, the pest management professionals at Clark Pest Control thank you for helping to keep those unwanted pests out of your home.

Stay safe and be well.