The top four pests that bug people the most.
February 14, 2019 – February is a month full of adoration. While love is in the air, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and American Pest Management are sharing facts and prevention tips about the main pests many people love to hate—bed bugs, cockroaches, mosquitoes and spiders.
“Nobody enjoys encountering pests in and around their home, especially when they can bite and produce itchy welts like bed bugs and mosquitoes,” said Travis Aggson, Vice President, Associate Certified Entomologist . “Some can pose significant health risks, such as cockroaches, and others – like spiders – can be just plain creepy.”
The following pests are considered by NPMA and American Pest Management to be most hated by the public.
Bed Bugs: According to an NPMA survey, one out of five Americans has experienced a bed bug infestation or knows someone who has encountered these despised pests. Avoiding these pests requires properly inspecting hotel rooms, leaving suitcases on bathroom tile, for traces of bed bug signs before settling in; and, carefully unpacking upon return to ensure no bed bugs hitched a ride home in a suitcase. 
Cockroaches: Cockroaches spread bacteria and pathogens by picking up germs on the spines of their legs and transferring them onto food and preparation surfaces. They can also exacerbate allergies and trigger asthma attacks in those people with a cockroach allergen sensitivity. The best advice for cockroach control is to practice good sanitation by vacuuming often and keeping a spotless kitchen. It’s also important to eliminate moisture build up around the home.
Mosquitoes: Mosquito bites are not only irritatingly itchy, but they can also transmit threatening diseases, like Zika virus, West Nile virus, Dengue and more. The key to mosquito prevention is wearing bug spray and applying it properly. Make sure to apply an insect repellant containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon-eucalyptus or IR3535.
Spiders: The common house spider is usually the spider most often encountered indoors. To prevent common house spiders from entering the home, seal cracks and use screens on windows and doors. Use a vacuum to remove adults, egg sacs and webs.
For more information about how to control these pests and others, visit our website www.americanpestonline.com or call our office 1-800-748-8287.
