Eek, They're Back! NPMA Reveals Top Pest Concerns for 2023
It's a new year, but pests aren't going anywhere. To kick off 2023, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is warning Americans about the top three pests that will be a continued concern this year: rodents, ticks and bed bugs.
"These pests earned their spot on our list of top concerns as they not only pose a threat to property, but health," says Jim Fredericks, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for NPMA. "We want to arm Americans with prevention tips and information on these top three pests to help protect themselves and their families."
Here are NPMA's top pest concerns and pro tips to help U.S. families:
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Rodents: Rodents are active year-round in all areas of the country and often seek the same shelter and food sources as humans leading to property damage and food contamination.
- Mice and rats enter homes in search of food and shelter but once inside, they are capable of spreading more than 35 diseases, including Salmonella and hantavirus.
- Pro Tip: Mice can fit through holes the size of a dime. Be sure to seal cracks and holes on the outside of the home, including areas where utilities and pipes enter the home.
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Ticks: Areas of the country experiencing warmer-than-usual winter weather can start to feel the impact of a year-round active tick population.
- Capable of spreading deadly diseases, like Lyme disease, to humans and pets, ticks pose major health threats.
- Pro Tip: Applying insect repellent and wearing long clothes can help keep ticks off but a thorough tick check after spending time outdoors is the best way to stay tick-free.
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Bed Bugs: The country may see another surge of bed bug cases with Americans returning to travel.
- Bed bugs are often found in beds because they feed on the blood of humans and are attracted to areas where they spend a lot of time. The most common threat of bed bugs is the bite itself which can turn into a large, raised, itchy welt.
- Pro Tip: Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers and often enter homes after travel. Inspect your room before unpacking, including behind the headboard, under lights and inside dressers, sofas and chairs.
If you suspect an infestation in or around your home, contact a licensed pest professional. For more information about NPMA's tops pests of 2023 and how to prevent them, visit www.PestWorld.org.
About the National Pest Management Association
The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 5,500 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, TikTok and YouTube.
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