Flowers Aren't The Only Thing Triggering Springtime Allergies

As the weather gets warmer, many will start to experience the unpleasant symptoms of seasonal allergies. But what if springtime isn’t the only thing that causes a stuffy nose? Many don’t realize cockroaches, rodents and other common household pests could also be behind their allergy and asthma symptoms, making pest prevention key to staying healthy. With May being Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, Cowleys Pest Services, a Pest Control company that has been servicing Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex, and Mercer County for 30 years, in partnership with the National Pest Management Association, is sharing tips that can help keep homeowners 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, but many may not be aware that they also pose serious and sometimes life-threatening risks to humans as well. In fact, 63 percent of American homes contain allergens from cockroaches, most of which are introduced through their saliva or droppings,” said Bill Cowley, Co-Owner of Cowleys Pest Services. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, many are spending more time indoors than usual, which could cause an increase in allergy and asthma symptoms triggered by pests. Additionally, homeowners seeking fresh air in their backyards or on nearby trails risk coming into contact with other pests such as ants, ticks, and mosquitoes, the latter two of which are well-known vectors of many deadly diseases.”  

Exposure to any of these pests can be dangerous, making it crucial for homeowners to remain vigilant in their prevention efforts to avoid the health threats posed by pests both inside and outside of the home. Cowleys Pest Services and the NPMAhave identified the following pest-proofing tips to help limit pest exposure this May:

• Seal cracks and crevices around the 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 the 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) 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 of disease transmission. 

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For nearly three decades, Cowleys Pest Services has been helping homeowners and businesses throughout Monmouth, Mercer, Middlesex, and Ocean Counties deal with a full range of termite and pest infestations including bird, rodent, and wildlife removal. Cowleys also offers services and products to help property owners protect their investment including crawl space encapsulation, attic insulation, and mold treatment. For more information, visit www.cowleys.com or call 732-897-9553.