Blog Post

Pests and Diseases: What Do Bugs and Critters Carry?

Nick Siebert • Jan 12, 2024

Some pests carry diseases, but not all. Know the difference.

Pests and diseases often go hand in hand. However, not all bugs and critters carry disease, but many do. It’s important to understand which pests pose a health threat, protecting you, your family, and your pets. 


Some bugs are ornamental. As such, these pests don’t transmit any known diseases. Ladybugs are a perfect example of ornamental bugs. However, they can cause reactions if someone is allergic to them. The same is true for any type of bug. 


It’s important to know what pests are more dangerous than others, taking steps to prevent a pest infestation with the help of a
professional pest control expert in Sparta, NJ. 


Do Bed Bugs Carry Disease?


Bed bugs are a common issue in homes. Luckily, they don’t carry any known diseases. This doesn’t mean that a person or animal can’t be allergic to them, however. They feed on blood and bite you when you’re sleeping, so an infestation must be dealt with quickly. 


They can hide in mattresses, sheets, and walls. They can also infest your carpets and furniture. But a professional pest control company can rid your home of an infestation before these pests continue to bite you and your family. 


Do Cockroaches Carry Disease?


A
cockroach infestation should always be taken seriously. Not only can they contaminate your food — and your pet’s food — but they carry harmful bacteria. It’s not known if they’re the cause of any one type of specific disease, but the bacteria they transmit can lead to a host of foodborne illnesses. This includes streptococcus, salmonella, and staphylococcus. 


Since one cockroach can quickly turn into many, always take them seriously. If you see one, it’s best to contact a professional pest removal expert before they multiply. 


Do Stink Bugs Carry Disease?


The
brown marmorated stink bug isn’t known to transmit any diseases. They’re also not known to do any harm. This doesn’t mean they can’t trigger allergies in people and pets, however. 


Since these bugs can enter your home through any type of crack or gap, it’s important to protect your house from an infestation. A professional pest control company can come to your house and seal pest entry points — even those you didn’t notice. 


Do Rodents Carry Disease?


Rodents are known to carry a variety of dangerous diseases. This includes leptospirosis, hantavirus, salmonella, tularemia, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCMV). But that’s not the only reason they’re dangerous in and around your property. 


Rodents can chew wires, which is a fire hazard. They can also cause property damage to your home and cars. This is why you should always contact a professional before an infestation occurs. 


Do Bats Carry Disease?


Bats can expose you and your family to a series of serious illnesses, but the two most common diseases they transmit are rabies and histoplasmosis. Although there are certain times of the year when
bat exclusion is legal, you can take steps to prevent them from roosting in or around your property all year long. You can also work with a professional pest control technician to prevent them in the first place. 


Pests and Diseases


Pests and diseases may be interchangeable, but you can take steps to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from critters. This includes routine monthly pest control, and working to remove bugs and other pests from your property. You can also work with a professional to seal any gaps or cracks in your foundation and install wildlife exclusion doors as necessary. 


Serene Property Services has the knowledge and experience to tackle any pest infestation. We service Sussex County, NJ, and Warwick, NY, so
contact us today for an estimate. 


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