Protect Your Home Against Pests to Prevent Allergies and Asthma

Eliminating Pests to Prevent Allergies and Asthma This Spring

Each year, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America designates May as National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, an ideal time to educate the public about triggers, prevention and treatment measures for asthma and allergic diseases. In recognition of this important observation, we want to remind people that a few simple pest prevention measures can go a long way in combating allergies and asthma this spring.

Common household pests, such as cockroaches and stinging insects, can pose a significant threat to asthma and allergy sufferers. Cockroach droppings, saliva, shed skins and other body parts contain allergen proteins known to cause allergy flare-ups and increase asthma symptoms, especially in children. In addition, stinging insects send more than 500,000 people to the emergency room each year due to serious reactions from the pest’s venom.

Many people blame their sneezing and runny noses during the spring season on pollen and grass, however, household pests are often culprits as well. It’s important for people to make an effort to keep the home free of potential triggers, and the first step is practicing good sanitation.

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) recommends the following tips for safeguarding homes against common indoor allergens caused by pests:

  • Exclude pests by sealing cracks and gaps on the outside of the home. Pay special attention to utility pipe entry points.
  • Vacuum at least once a week using a vacuum with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate) filter.
  • Keep food sealed and stored properly, and clean kitchen floors and counters daily.
  • Dispose of garbage regularly and store in sealed containers.
  • If allergic to stinging insects, learn how to use an epinephrine kit and carry it with you at all times.
  • Should you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction following a stinging insect encounter, such as tongue and throat swelling, wheezing, dizziness, or shortness of breath, call 911.
  • If you suspect an infestation, contact a licensed pest professional to safely remove the threat.
Source: NPMA

To view full image click HERE

Source: NPMA

PSA: Common Household Pests Incite Allergies & Asthma

PestWorld.org and The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America have teamed up for a public service announcement to warn homeowner’s of the dangers of allergens in the home caused by pests and rodents.  Common household pests such as cockroaches and mice are responsible for inciting allergies and aggravating asthma.  In fact, 63% of homes contain cockroach allergens.  That number increases to 78%-98% in urban areas.  82% of homes have asthma triggers spread by mice.

Watch NPMA’s public service announcement below:

Keep your family (children are especially at risk) and home safe by keeping your home pest free, call Northwest Exterminating. For more information visit pestworld.org or The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

The NPMA will donate $1 to The AAFA for each new Facebook LIKE (HERE) until Sept, 15th.  Go LIKE them…and LIKE Northwest Exterminating (HERE) while you’re there!

SOURCE

PSA: Common Household Pests Incite Allergies & Asthma

PestWorld.org and The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America have teamed up for a public service announcement to warn homeowner’s of the dangers of allergens in the home caused by pests and rodents.  Common household pests such as cockroaches and mice are responsible for inciting allergies and aggravating asthma.  In fact, 63% of homes contain cockroach allergens.  That number increases to 78%-98% in urban areas.  82% of homes have asthma triggers spread by mice.
Watch NPMA’s public service announcement below:

Keep your family (children are especially at risk) and home safe by keeping your home pest free, call Northwest Exterminating. For more information visit pestworld.org or The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
The NPMA will donate $1 to The AAFA for each new Facebook LIKE (HERE) until Sept, 15th.  Go LIKE them…and LIKE Northwest Exterminating (HERE) while you’re there!
SOURCE

Tips for Allergy Relief

allergiesAfter a season filled with clouds and rain, I believe most of us are excited for the warmer temperatures that the spring is bringing us.  However, not everyone is enjoying the fresh air of spring, especially not those suffering from allergies.  Sneezing, itching, and watery eyes shouldn’t be synonymous with spring.

Reports have been made that this could be one of the toughest allergy seasons that we’ve seen in years.  A recent pollen count in Atlanta just last week (4/11) was 8,024 (anything over 1,500 is considered extremely high).  Pollen is everywhere so it can be difficult to avoid.  Below are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to pollen:

  • Stay indoors as much as possible between 10 am and 4 pm.
  • Use a HEPA filter on your furnace and air conditioner.
  • Wipe pets down before they come indoors from being outside.  Pollen can collect on their fur.
  • Remove shoes before coming inside so you’re not trekking pollen off the bottom of your shoes.
  • Do NOT line dry your clothes outside.  Dry all clothes in the dryer.
  • Wash bedding on a regular basis to remove pollen left on sheets.
  • Shower before going to bed to remove the day’s pollen from your hair and skin.
  • Vacuum, sweep, mop, and dust.  Keeping floors and surfaces clear of allergens can help reduce the amount of pollen floating around your home.  It is highly recommended that you wear a mask and gloves while cleaning.
  • Treat allergy symptoms with over the counter allergy relief.
  • Consult your Doctor.  Your Doctor will be able to help you determine what exactly it is that you’re allergic to.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/allergies/spring-allergy-tips
http://www.atlantaallergy.com/

Northwest Exterminating

Bugs and Your Health

MosquitoesThe early spring has brought pests out in full force and we suspect that they will not be slowing down anytime soon.  Not only are bugs annoying but they’re a health concern as well.

  • West Nile Virus, Encephalitis, dog heartworm – mosquitoes
  • Lyme disease – ticks
  • Rabies – rodents
  • Allergies & Asthma – cockroaches
  • Food Contamination – cockroaches, mice/rats
  • Salmonella – cockroaches, house flies
  • Skin irritation and rashes – lice, fleas, bed bugs, mites
  • Venomous bites & stings (that can be accompanied by severe or life threatening reactions) – black widow, brown recluse, scorpion, snakes
  • Painful stings (that can be accompanied by severe or life threatening reactions) – fire ants, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps

Pests can carry diseases and cause areas to be unsanitary.  These are issues of concern for both homes and businesses.  Even the cleanest homes can have bug problems in an environment like this.  Carpenter bees, mosquitoes, ants, yellow jackets, silverfish, and other pests have recently been invading properties.  If you’re in the Atlanta, Columbus, Savannah, or Nashville area, call Northwest Exterminating.  Our NorPest Green program was developed exclusively by Northwest Exterminating to get rid of pests using the lowest environmental impact possible.  A Northwest representative will develop a customized plan to target those pests while maintaining the health of your home.

We are strategically placed throughout Georgia and Tennessee to service all areas of Georgia as well as parts of Tennessee, Alabama, and South Carolina.  Visit us online or call 888.466.7849 to find the location nearest you.

 

Pin It on Pinterest

Call Now Button