 |  |
|
Pest Control
Cockroaches Damage: Cockroaches spread disease by depositing disease-causing organisms on food and utensils. The American cockroach, which comes into contact with human excrement in sewers or with pet droppings, may transmit bacteria that cause Salmonella and Shigella. German cockroaches are believed to be capable of transmitting disease-causing organisms such as Staphylococcus, hepatitis, and coliform bacteria. They also have been implicated in the spread of typhoid and dysentery. Recent studies have found a strong association between the presence of cockroaches and increases in the severity of asthma symptoms in individuals who are sensitive to cockroach allergens. Detection and Treatment: Cockroaches may become pests in homes, restaurants, hospitals, warehouses, offices, and virtually any structure that has food preparation or storage areas. These pests are common even in the cleanest of crowded urban areas and older dwellings. It’s usually not difficult to discover an infestation because they are often visible. Treatment usually involves sealing cracks and crevices to block entrance, keeping food and trash areas clean to avoid providing food, and the professional application of insecticide and bait on a regular basis. Click here for more info. Ants Damage: Ants cause various types of damage, depending upon the variety. Carpenter ants tunnel through wood, destroying structures. Pharaoh ants may transmit serious diseases. A fire ant’s sting is potentially deadly to susceptible individuals, and all ants contaminate the food they infest. Detection and Treatment: Ants build massive colonies, so their presence is generally detected when you see their nests or the ants themselves. Treatments involve baiting, insecticide, and sealing off entry to buildings. Spiders Except for poisonous spiders such as the black widow and the brown recluse, spiders are not harmful to humans. When it’s important to control spiders, chemical control is used along with destruction of webs and eggs. Since they feed on insects, measures that control unwanted insects will also reduce spider populations. Biting and Stinging Pests Damage: Bees, wasps, and scorpions are dangerous because of their painful and potentially harmful stings. Detection and Treatment: Wasp nests and bee hives can be removed by professionals with protective gear. Insecticides are also used. Scorpion problems are usually treated chemically. Click here to learn more about other insects. Pest identification information copyright Regents of the University of California© Visit UC IPM Online for more information about additional pests. |