When families send their children to daycare or school, the last thing they want to worry about is the child getting bit or stung by an insect that could transmit diseases. Even if a pest doesn’t present a health or safety concern, no one wants to send their children off to a facility swarming with ants, roaches, spiders, or other pests! Pest control solutions for educational facilities are a must to ensure the safety and health of our children.
Diseases Spread by Insects
Children around the world are at risk for diseases spread by insects. Teachers and administrators must focus their attention on educating the students and not have to worry about the health concerns of insects and rodents wandering around the building. Effective pest protection will ensure our smallest humans get the education they deserve in a healthy environment.
In the United States, diseases that may be spread by insects include:
West Nile Virus – Most cases of West Nile virus are mild, and symptoms include headache, fever, and body aches. Some healthy individuals have West Nile with no symptoms at all, but older adults and those with compromised immune systems may experience severe headaches, stiff neck, high fevers, weakness, seizures, confusion, and even loss of consciousness. West Nile can be transmitted by mosquitoes.
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever – In some states, particularly North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Oklahoma, ticks spread the Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Symptoms include fever, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and rash.
Lyme Disease – Deer ticks spread Lyme disease in the United States. The first sign is a rash; a red spot with a lighter red ring that resembles a target at the site of the tick bite, and gets bigger with each passing day. Some children who get Lyme disease may develop a drooping eyelid or the corner of their mouth, and symptoms may include vomiting, stiff neck, and severe headaches. If left untreated, children with Lyme disease may later have swelling of the knee or other joints.
Tularemia – Sometimes called rabbit fever, Tularemia is spread to humans through bites of infected insects – most often deerflies, mosquitoes, and ticks – but it can also come from direct contact with infected animals including cats and rabbits. Tularemia can cause a painful ulcer on the skin at the site of the bite, enlarged lymph glands, sore throat, mouth sores, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Plague – Fleas spread by rodents can cause the plague. It is rare today and can be treated, but in the 14th century, the plague killed three-quarters of the Europe population!
Pest Protection for Schools and Daycare Centers
Spencer is a certified, locally operated pest control company, run by mothers and grandmothers who want the best for children and grandchildren. We provide pest protection for schools and daycare centers that protect students just like we would take care of our own children. Educational facilities get a customized Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program that addresses the unique needs of your facility, including eco-friendly treatment options. Contact us today to learn more about our school and daycare pest protection solutions.